Meet JDAM weapon which US will give to Israel, deal is worth Rs 43000000000, weapon is capable of…
Tel Aviv: In a major defence deal, the United States has given the green light to a weapon deal worth USD 510 million (approx. Rs 4,300 crore) for Israel. This deal also includes providing Tel Aviv with Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) kits. The deal was confirmed just days after the Israel-Iran ceasefire announcement. Let’s learn more about the lethal JDAM weapon and why this deal is so important.
What is JDAM weapon?
In simple words, Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) is a guidance kit that has the capability to turn the conventional bombs into smart ones that can hit the target with precision. Developed by US’s aerospace company Boeing, the JDAM is considered revolutionary in the world of weapons.
What is the function of JDAM kit?
The JDAM kit is installed on conventional bombs (such as 500-pound MK-82 or the 2000-pound BLU-109). It is loaded with GPS and Inertial Navigation System (INS) which accurately guides the bomb to the selected target.
Accuracy: The kit enhances the bomb’s capability and enables it to hit the target accurately regardless of weather conditions or distance. With the JDAM kit, the bomb can destroy the target with an accuracy of 5-10 metres.
Cost-Effective: This kit is cheaper if we compare it to expensive missile systems. A kit costs around USD 20,000 to USD 30,000 (Rs 17 lakh to Rs 25 lakh).
Uses: The kit fitted on the bomb can be launched from fighter aircraft (such as F-15, F-16). Once launched it can navigate the bomb to targets like – bunkers, military bases or other important targets.
What is included in this deal?
The USD510 million deal includes 3,845 JDAM kits for 2000-pound BLU-109 bombs, also known as bunker-buster bombs.
3,280 JDAM kits: For 500-pound MK-82 bombs, use to hit military targets.
Support Services: The US Government and Boeing are providing technical, logistical, and other program support.
Importance of this deal
The JDAM kits enhances the Israeli Air Force’s precision strike capabilities, improving its effectiveness against various regional threats, including Hamas and Hezbollah. The United States frames this as a measure to bolster Israel’s long-term defense against threats like Iran and its affiliated groups.
Time and Delivery
As per the major deal, the delivery of JDAM kits and other equipment will begin in 2026 or later. This means that the deal is to strengthen Tel Aviv’s long-term military strategy.
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