General Purpose Bombs

The General Purpose Bombs program, managed by the Air Force, focuses on procuring a variety of munitions to support military operations. Its primary goal is to maintain a robust inventory of bombs for various tactical purposes, including defeating both non-hardened and hardened targets such as bunkers and reinforced concrete structures. This program ensures that the Air Force has access to a range of bomb types, including those that can be converted into precision-guided munitions with the addition of guidance kits.

Key objectives include acquiring different classes of bombs, such as the BLU-117/MK-84 and BLU-111/MK-82. These versatile bombs can be used as both unguided and precision-guided weapons, essential for equipping aircraft like the F-16 and B-2 with capabilities to effectively engage a wide array of targets. The program also emphasizes advanced penetrator bombs like the BLU-137 and BLU-138/GBU-72, designed for enhanced performance against hard targets such as tunnels and bunkers.

Additionally, this initiative addresses production challenges related to diminishing manufacturing sources and material shortages. By investing in studies, bridge buys, and supplier replacements, it aims to preserve future production capabilities. The Air Force collaborates with the Army Single Manager for Conventional Ammunition (SMCA) to procure these munitions efficiently, ensuring readiness for both active duty and reserve components.

The program also includes provisions for practice bombs like the BDU-56 and BDU-50, crucial for training aircrews in weapons delivery. These inert training shapes simulate live bomb trajectories, providing realistic training scenarios without the risks associated with live ordnance. This initiative supports the strategic objectives of maintaining a well-equipped Air Force capable of executing diverse combat plans while adapting to evolving technological and logistical challenges.