The U.S. Department of Defense has made a big announcement: they’ve signed a contract with Boeing worth $6.9 billion to produce Small Diameter Bombs (SDB). This contract isn’t just for the U.S.; it also includes selling these bombs to Ukraine, Japan, and Bulgaria. The news comes as part of a larger plan, with the Pentagon unveiling more than $33 billion in new defense deals.
What Are Small Diameter Bombs?
The Small Diameter Bombs, specifically the GBU-39B model, are precision-guided munitions that have been in use since 2006. They weigh about 250 pounds and are designed to hit specific targets with great accuracy. These bombs can be attached to various aircraft and will soon be compatible with drones, allowing them to attack fixed targets like fuel depots and bunkers.
Ukraine’s Military Upgrade
Ukraine has received GBU-39B bombs from the U.S. before and has even modified its MiG-29 fighter jets to carry up to eight of these bombs at a time. This upgrade boosts Ukraine’s military capabilities significantly, enabling them to strike more effectively against their adversaries.
The Bigger Picture
This new contract with Boeing is part of a series of Pentagon deals, emphasizing the U.S.’s commitment to strengthening its allies’ defense systems. Countries like Israel, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and Australia have already purchased SDBs from the U.S., highlighting a growing interest in these advanced weapons.
Political Climate
Amid these developments, President Joe Biden recently announced another $8 billion in military aid for Ukraine. However, there’s some hesitation within the U.S. administration regarding how this aid will be used. Biden is reportedly cautious about allowing Ukraine to use U.S. weapons to attack deep inside Russia, fearing it might escalate the conflict.
Russian Response
In response to these U.S. military support efforts, Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that supplying weapons to Ukraine will only prolong the conflict and will not change the outcome. He has also proposed changes to Russia’s nuclear policy, stating that any aggression from non-nuclear states supported by nuclear powers would be seen as a joint attack.
The Pentagon’s $6.9 billion contract with Boeing is not just a business deal; it reflects a significant shift in military strategy, aiming to bolster the defense of allies like Ukraine while also navigating a complex international landscape. As the situation unfolds, the impact of these bombs on the ongoing conflict remains to be seen.
