Small Diameter Bomb (SDB)

The Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) program, specifically the Increment II variant, is a joint initiative between the Department of the Air Force and the Department of the Navy, with the Air Force as the lead service. This effort aims to enhance joint lethality in contested environments by enabling precision strikes against a variety of targets within adversary air and missile defense networks. The SDB II is designed to destroy mobile platforms regardless of weather conditions, increasing operational effectiveness in complex terrains. The program's objectives include integrating this capability onto various aircraft platforms, such as the F-15E for the Air Force and the F-35B/C for the Navy.

The SDB II F-18 Integration project addresses delays in the F-35 program by incorporating SDB II capabilities onto the F/A-18 E/F aircraft using the BRU-55 rack. This integration involves developing and testing aircraft software to ensure successful deployment of SDB II munitions from midboard stations on these aircraft. Initial Operational Capability (IOC) is targeted for FY 2024, following a series of limited envelope tests. The project also plans to expand testing to include full envelope capabilities and additional carriage systems.

Efforts are focused on integrating SDB II with Navy threshold platforms like the F-35B and F-35C. This includes modifying existing bomb racks for shipboard environments and incorporating Universal Armament Interface (UAI) software into operational flight programs. The project supports developmental testing and logistics to achieve Initial Operational Capability (IOC) for internal carriage on these platforms by FY 2026, with external carriage testing slated to follow.

These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to ensure that advanced munitions like the SDB II are effectively integrated into current military assets, enhancing their combat readiness and operational flexibility. The program's acquisition strategy involves competitive contracting and collaboration with industry leaders such as Raytheon and Lockheed Martin to advance engineering, manufacturing, and development efforts tailored to both Air Force and Navy requirements.