Boeing’s Latest Product Isn’t a Plane. It’s Called the GLSDB, an Improved Bomb On Its Way to Ukraine

Recent news highlights the absurdity of the war in Ukraine. The U.S. has confirmed that it’s discussing territorial concessions and power plants with Russian leader Vladimir Putin that could facilitate a ceasefire. At the same time, Washington has shipped a weapons package to Ukraine, which includes bombs intended to counter the current Russian advantages in the invasion.

The “offensive triangle.” Russia has developed a notable strategy as the war enters its fourth year. Although it’s not achieving decisive victories on the battlefield, the country is steadily undermining the capabilities and morale of Ukrainian forces. British experts refer to this approach as an “offensive triangle.” It combines infantry, drones, and glide bombs to maintain relentless pressure on Ukrainian troops.

This tactic has proven particularly effective in the context of Ukraine’s reduced Western military supplies. Although they’ve since been reactivated, President Donald Trump froze arms shipments and intelligence cooperation, which worsened the situation. Russia hasn’t made significant strategic gains. However, its approach has resulted in numerous small victories, albeit at a high cost in terms of human lives and resources.

UMPK glide bombs. The intensive use of UMPK glide bombs is a crucial component of this strategy, which has allowed Russia to enhance its air capabilities without risking its aircraft to enemy fire. These bombs transform conventional munitions into cost-effective precision weapons and have been significant for Russia since their introduction in 2023.

Unlike Western systems such as the U.S. JDAMs, which have been in use for more than 25 years, Russian UMPKs prioritize quantity over precision. Although their accuracy isn’t as high as their Western counterparts, their explosive power is devastating. Additionally, these munitions have proven especially effective against Ukrainian trenches and bunkers, as even a near miss can destroy well-prepared fortifications.

Russia is projected to increase its production of UMPK bombs from 40,000 in 2024 to 70,000 in 2025, posing an even greater challenge for Ukraine.

American aid: GLSDB. The reactivation of U.S. military and intelligence cooperation aid will bolster Ukraine’s response to the Russian offensive power triangle. Specifically, Washington has sent Ukraine a new, improved version of the Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSDB).

The GLSDB made its debut on the Ukrainian battlefield months ago. However, it performed poorly, particularly due to Russia’s advanced electronic warfare capabilities, so Ukraine stopped using it. With the urgent need for long-range weaponry following the depleting stockpile of ATACMS missiles, Ukrainian officials have reevaluated the GLSDB and modified it to effectively counter electronic jamming and enhance its performance.

Modifications. According to Reuters, the new versions of the GLSDB feature structural reinforcements to better withstand the stresses of launch. They also have an optimized GPS navigation system that increases resistance to jamming and spoofing. To validate these improvements, 19 launch tests were conducted recently.

Boeing and Saab developed the GLSDB as a ground-launched precision weapon with long-range strike capabilities. Its design combines two existing components. On one hand, the GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) is used in air strikes. On the other, the M26 rocket engine is employed in the MLRS and HIMARS systems.

How it works. The GLSDB system allows the bomb to be fired like a regular rocket. After reaching a certain altitude, it deploys retractable wings that enable it to glide towards its target without propulsion, relying on its inertial navigation system and GPS. With an approximate range of 94 miles, the GLSDB is particularly useful for Ukraine in its efforts to target Russian infrastructure and supply lines at long distances.

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The initial problem. Saab initially claimed that the GLSDB had a high accuracy rate, with a margin of error of only 3 feet. However, reports from the front lines indicate that its susceptibility to Russian electronic warfare was greater than expected. Russia has demonstrated an effective capability to jam GPS signals, which has impacted the accuracy of the GLSDB and diminished its effectiveness.

Interestingly, the airborne version of the SDB has performed well in the Ukrainian Air Force, raising questions about why the ground version experienced jamming issues. Some experts suggest that the greater flight distance of the GLSDB may have amplified the effects of GPS signal loss.

Strategic importance and versatility. Despite its initial challenges, the GLSDB remains a key component of Ukrainian military strategy. Its long range surpasses that of the 227 mm rockets used in MLRS and HIMARS systems. This allows deep strikes without relying on more expensive tactical ballistic missiles like the ATACMS. Additionally, it’s compatible with multiple launch platforms, including the M270 MLRS and M142 HIMARS, facilitating its integration into the Ukrainian arsenal.

Another important factor is the availability of components. Both M26 engines and GBU-39/B bombs are widely available in the arsenals of the U.S. and its allies. This makes the GLSDB a viable and scalable option for sustaining pressure on Russia and countering Moscow’s attrition war through its offensive power triangle.

Image | Saab

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