Overview
The Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) guidance kit is a low-cost guidance kit that converts existing unguided free-fall bombs into accurately guided "smart" weapons. Since 1998, Boeing has produced more than 195,000 JDAM tailkits.
Capabilities and Components
The JDAM kit consists of a new tail section that contains an Inertial Navigation System/Global Positioning System that:
- Utilizes global positioning system (GPS) technology
- Can be launched miles from a target
- Relies on the navigation system to update its trajectory all the way to impact
- Is used with MK-83/BLU-110, MK-84, BLU-109 and MK-82 warheads
Utilization
Currently JDAM is ordered by the U.S. Department of Defense for use by the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Marine Corps. JDAM also has 18 international customers. Anticipated applications and development plans include the following tasks:
- Integrating the kits for use with additional aircraft
- Extending the range
- Reducing the size
- Improving the accuracy
- Adding low-cost terminal guidance
- Adding a laser sensor.
Very accurate and highly reliable, JDAM can be delivered in virtually any weather condition.
For more information, read the Joint Direct Attack Munition (PDF) overview.
For more information, read the Laser Joint Direct Attack Munition (PDF) overview.
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