Small Diameter Bomb (SDB)

The Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) Program, specifically Program Element (PE) 0207327F, is an Air Force-led initiative focused on research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of the GBU-53/B Small Diameter Bomb Increment II (SDB II), also known as StormBreaker. The program aims to deliver a precision-guided munition capable of engaging both moving and stationary targets in all weather conditions, while minimizing collateral damage and maximizing aircraft payload efficiency. SDB II is a joint interest program between the United States Air Force (USAF) and the Department of the Navy (DoN), with the USAF serving as the lead service.

SDB Increment II addresses several key warfighter requirements, including enhanced precision, adverse weather operability, and network-enabled weapon capabilities. The weapon leverages advanced guidance, navigation, and control systems, and is designed to be compatible with a wide range of aircraft, including the F-15E (USAF threshold), F-35B/C (DoN threshold), and other platforms such as the F-22, F-16, B-2, A-10, MQ-9, B-1, B-52, AC-130, and F/A-18E/F. The program also supports integration with various carriage and mission planning systems, such as the BRU-61 rack and Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS).

A major focus of the SDB II program is ongoing development and engineering changes to maintain and enhance system performance in response to emerging threats and evolving technology. This includes upgrades to hardware and software, cryptographic modernization of weapon data links, program protection, exportability features, cybersecurity improvements, and enhancements to lethality and survivability.

The program conducts regular trade studies and concept development for technology refreshes, addressing obsolescence and ensuring compatibility with external systems. These efforts are managed through a System Improvement Program (SIP), which aims to transition the weapon to a steady cycle of Operational Flight Program (OFP) updates.

M-Code integration is another critical objective within the SDB II program. M-Code is a military GPS signal that provides enhanced anti-jam capabilities and secure access to GPS signals, which is essential for operating in contested environments with advanced adversarial jamming. The program has focused on the design, development, testing, and qualification of engineering changes required for M-Code integration, including receiver-level qualification, security certification, and production readiness. These activities are mandated by Congress and are scheduled for completion in FY2025.

The program also includes research and development in precise navigation, supported by congressional adds, to further improve the weapon's navigation accuracy and resilience. These efforts are intended to ensure that the SDB II remains effective against evolving threats and in environments where GPS signals may be degraded or denied.

Integration and test support is a continuous activity, particularly for the F-15E and F-35B/C platforms, to ensure that new capabilities and hardware changes are thoroughly tested and validated. This includes captive flight tests, platform integration testing, and updates to technical orders and mission planning software. The program also invests in upgrades to analytical, information management, and digital infrastructure to support ongoing development and sustainment.

The acquisition strategy for SDB II involves a combination of competitive and sole-source contracts, with Raytheon Missile Systems serving as the primary contractor for design, development, and integration activities. The program uses a modular open systems approach to facilitate incremental upgrades and maintainability throughout the weapon's lifecycle. Funding supports technical development, program management, civilian pay, and compliance with financial audit requirements. The SDB II program is structured to provide a flexible, advanced, and survivable precision munition capability to meet current and future operational needs of both the Air Force and Navy.