Raytheon will re-introduce Paveway laser-guided bomb kits for 113kg (250lb)-class Mk81 warheads, the manufacturer will announce today.

The GBU-58 is already being integrated on the Hawker Beechcraft AT-6 Texan II, one of two competitors for the US Air Force's light air support contract.

Raytheon also is testing the GBU-58 on other aircraft aimed at the counter-insurgency mission, but did not disclose further details. The company has previously integrated the same weapon on the Dassault Super Etendard strike aircraft and Mirage III fighter.

Harry Schulte, vice-president of Raytheon's air warfare products, said the GBU-58 is wanted for its smaller blast radius, which reduces the likelihood of innocent deaths and injuries, and "flexible warhead options".

The GBU-58 also joins a growing family of Mk-series warheads that have been converted into smart bombs with Paveway guidance systems. More than 17 aircraft types in 42 countries have the ability to carry Paveway bombs. Overall, the company has delivered more than 350,000 kits worldwide.

Source: Flight International

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