The system incorporates modular, compact air-breathing propulsion technology. It is also provisioned for optional modular capability enhancements using open system architecture interfaces to increase lethality.
JDAM LR is intended for rapid integration on both legacy and next-generation platforms. Boeing said the system maintains JDAM precision and impact condition control.
The munition can carry a payload of up to 500 pounds. It is compatible with all MK-82 form factor payloads and can also use a low-cost decoy fuel tank.
The system offers a range of more than 300 nautical miles with a 500-pound warhead. With a low-cost decoy fuel tank, its range increases to more than 700 nautical miles.
Optional enhancements supported by an onboard 1.5 kW generator include seekers, a data link and other mission avionics. The system is compatible with all existing JDAM-integrated aircraft through the existing JDAM aircraft interface and in-weapon launch acceptability region.
The material described JDAM LR as a game-changing improvement in precision strike. It said an affordable long-range precision-guided munition could augment shortages of expensive standoff missiles and allow fourth-generation platforms to contribute deeper magazines in anti-access and area-denial theaters.
According to the background material, the U.S. Department of War reported in April that the first operational tests of a new JDAM module for different types of bombs had been completed. The new variant, designated JDAM LR, was tested using Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet multirole combat aircraft in early April.
In both tests, bombs equipped with the modules covered a distance of about 320 kilometers. The background material said the new version opened the way to adapting conventional gravity bombs into long-range precision munitions that are also economically attractive to users.
The U.S. Department of War indicated that the project, carried out by the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command, would continue work on JDAM LR integration and further operational testing. The effort forms part of the continued development of the JDAM family by Boeing and the department.
Boeing-produced JDAM modules are among the standard precision weapon components used by U.S. aviation and by numerous NATO countries and U.S. allies. Boeing has delivered more than 400,000 units, many of which have been used in combat operations around the world.
The background material cited recent campaigns against Iran, Houthi rebels and Russian forces in Ukraine. It also said Boeing and the U.S. Department of War are continuing to develop the JDAM family, including JDAM LR, LJDAM and Quicksink modules.
