Boeing Lands Massive $7.4 Billion Pentagon Contract for Cutting-Edge JDAM Tail Kits
The United States Department of Defense (DoD) has awarded Boeing, a leading American defense contractor, a $7.4 billion agreement for the supply of Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) tail kits.
This signifies an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) agreement, indicating that the specific quantity of kits has not been predetermined, with supply expected to continue until February 2030.
The arrangement includes the provision of various JDAM components:
- Tail kits for different bomb sizes (MK-82, MK-83, MK-84)
- Replacement components
- Repair kits
- Laser JDAM sensor kits
This contract closely follows the State Department’s approval of a possible Foreign Military Sales (FMS) deal with Canada for JDAM systems valued at $96.4 million (Canadian $132 million).
Canada requested additional JDAM tail kits (including KMU-572, KMU-556, and KMU-557 models) to improve upon a previous FMS agreement.
JDAM: A Fundamental Element of Precision Strike Capability
Engineered by Boeing, JDAM tail kits transform unguided bombs into precision-guided munitions. These kits feature an inertial navigation system (INS) and Global Positioning System (GPS) for precise targeting, ensuring compatibility with a variety of bomb sizes (ranging from 500lb to 2,000lb).
Key attributes of JDAM encompass:
- Extended-range capability: JDAM can be launched from distances exceeding 15 miles from the target.
- Outstanding precision: The system boasts a reliability rate above 95% and reaches a circular error probability (CEP) of less than 1.7 meters, surpassing the 3.3-meter standard.
- Extensive usage: JDAM has been in production since 1998 and is vital for U.S. and allied air forces. With over 500,000 units produced, it has also seen substantial international sales.
- Ongoing advancements: Next-generation JDAM variants are currently under development, including powered editions that extend the munition’s range beyond 70 kilometers.
