ROCKWELL GBU-15 glide-bombs modified with global-positioning/inertial-navigation systems (GPS/INS) were dropped from US Air Force Lockheed Martin F-16s with a mean accuracy of 5m (16ft), or better, in recent tests using differential GPS (DGPS) to enhance precision guidance.
Six bombs were released at altitudes of 24,000-30,000ft and slant ranges of 22-25km (12-14nm) in the tests at Eglin AFB, Florida, in May and June. DGPS corrections were datalinked from a ground station to the aircraft before weapon release.
Precise current position and target locations were then downloaded to the weapon.
After launch, the modified GBU-15 guided itself to the target using the GPS/INS. A mean bomb miss-distance of 4m was achieved against horizontal targets and 5m against vertical targets. The programme goal was a mean miss-distance of 5m or less, says Lockheed Martin. One bomb hit the vertical target less than 2m from the aimpoint, the company says.
According to Lockheed Martin, the USAF's Exploitation of DGPS for Guidance Enhancement programme demonstrated that an all weather, launch and leave, precision-guided-weapon capability can be achieved without an expensive targeting or terminal-guidance system.
Source: Flight International
