The SDB II glide bombs will supplement the air-to-ground weaponry of Finland’s F-35A aircraft. The Ministry of Defence and Finnish Defence Forces said the weapon’s features enable precise strikes at medium range, including against moving targets in challenging weather conditions.
The small size of the glide bomb allows the F-35 to carry several weapons at the same time. The procurement will supplement a previous order made as part of the F-35 weapon package.
“The precision-guided glide bombs now being procured will supplement our previous order as part of the F-35 weapon package. The SDB IIs are technologically advanced and will bring the F-35 armament the capability the Finnish Air Force did not previously have,” said Colonel (ret.) Henrik Elo, Director of the F-35 Programme.
“The ability of the glide bomb to strike moving targets also in challenging weather conditions will allow using the F-35 effectively when contributing to Multi-Domain Operations across all defence branches,” Elo said. Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen also said the procurement would strengthen Finland’s defence capability in demanding conditions.
“The procurement supplements a previous order as part of the overall F-35 acquisition. It is a new type of capability that will strengthen Finland’s defence capability even in demanding conditions,” Häkkänen said.
“The glide bomb is a technically advanced product that supports the effective use of the F-35 fleet as part of the defence system,” Häkkänen said. The United States Congress approved the sale of the Raytheon-manufactured GBU-53 SDB II glide bombs in connection with the HX Fighter Programme.
The supplementary purchase will add to the Foreign Military Sales procurement contract signed in 2023. The package is being carried out under the Letter of Offer and Acceptance framework.
In addition to the glide bombs, the purchase includes manuals and documentation. It also covers spare parts and accessories, transport services, and the manufacturer’s and supplier’s training, repair and support services.
