Small Diameter Bomb (SDB)

The Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) Program, as outlined in Program Element (PE) 0604329N, is a joint initiative between the Department of the Air Force (USAF) and the Department of the Navy (DON), with the USAF serving as the lead agency. The primary goal of this program is to develop and integrate the Small Diameter Bomb Increment II (SDB II) into Navy and Marine Corps aircraft, specifically the F-35B, F-35C, and F/A-18E/F platforms. SDB II is designed to enhance joint lethality in contested environments by enabling precision strikes against a wide array of targets, including mobile platforms, within adversary air and missile defense networks and through adverse weather conditions.

SDB II Weapon Support focuses on engineering, manufacturing, and development (EMD) activities, with Raytheon Missile Systems serving as the prime contractor. The objectives include continued development, procurement of test assets, and government support for operational testing and integration. In FY 2025, the program aims to complete operational testing and achieve Initial Operational Capability (IOC) on the F/A-18E/F. The program will also continue development and Critical Design Review (CDR) for the BRU-61C/A bomb rack. For FY 2026, efforts are concentrated on the integration and qualification testing of SDB II on F-35B and F-35C, with increased support for these activities.

JSF Integration provides funding for the integration of SDB II on the F-35B and F-35C platforms. Lockheed Martin is responsible for developing the F-35 Operational Flight Program (OFP) software, supporting flight missions, and conducting mission analysis. Objectives for FY 2025 and FY 2026 include advancing the OFP to enable Own-Ship Control, which allows the host aircraft to manage and deploy the SDB II. Integration of the BRU-61C/A rack on the F-35B and F-35C is also a major focus, with efforts nearing completion as the program approaches IOC for these platforms.

BRU-61C/A Rack Development involves modifying the existing USAF BRU-61B/A rack to meet Navy and F-35 environmental requirements. Boeing is tasked with these upgrades, which will enable the rack to carry four SDB II munitions and support Universal Armament Interface (UAI) capability. The integration of BRU-61C/A on the F/A-18E/F will commence after the completion of F-35 integration, aligning with the adjusted F-35 program schedule. The program includes system design, qualification, and production milestones, with continued development and testing planned through FY 2026.

Test and Evaluation activities are conducted at Naval Air Warfare Centers in Patuxent River, MD, and China Lake, CA, as well as by Lockheed Martin. These efforts encompass both developmental and operational testing of the SDB II weapon system, the BRU-61 rack, and the integration with F-35B and F-35C aircraft. Testing includes technical evaluations for third-party post-launch control and own-ship control, ensuring the system meets operational requirements and can be effectively employed in net-centric operations.

Management Services support the transition of contractor services to sustainment and production, as well as government support for program management and logistics. Funding in FY 2026 is directed toward sustaining production support and ensuring continued government oversight. These services are essential for maintaining program efficiency and aligning with broader government cost-efficiency initiatives.