Hard and Deeply Buried Target Defeat System (HDBTDS) Program

The Hard and Deeply Buried Target Defeat System (HDBTDS) Program, managed by the Air Force, focuses on developing advanced munitions capable of targeting and neutralizing hard and deeply buried targets (HDBTs). It aims to enhance the Air Force's ability to engage fortified structures such as bunkers and tunnels using precision-guided penetrator munitions. This initiative includes the development of systems like the Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) and the GBU-72 Advanced 5,000-lb Penetrator Weapon System (A5K). These systems are designed to integrate with current and future platforms, increasing mission efficiency by reducing the number of weapons needed per target.

The Direct Strike Penetrator Systems project within this program evaluates and integrates advanced technologies such as position, navigation, and timing capabilities, alongside smart fuze systems. These enhancements aim to improve the precision and effectiveness of air-to-surface conventional munitions against HDBTs. The project emphasizes rapid prototyping and fielding activities under Section 804 to quickly incorporate emerging technologies into existing weapon systems. This approach addresses current capability gaps while ensuring that the Air Force maintains a critical global strike capability against well-protected enemy assets.

A significant component of the HDBTDS Program is the Next Generation Penetrator initiative, set to begin in FY 2025. This effort focuses on developing an advanced large penetrator concept through extensive modeling, simulation, and testing. The goal is to design warhead components that meet stringent performance parameters for lethality, survivability, and penetration. These efforts will culminate in a prototype technical data package that enhances Combatant Command capabilities against HDBTs.

Additionally, the program leverages digital acquisition strategies to streamline development processes and reduce costs through common component development across similar weapon systems. Investments are made in analytical tools, data management, digital environments, and security infrastructure upgrades to support these efforts. The program aligns with Department of Defense enterprise IT solutions to ensure efficient management and execution of its objectives.