Dynetics GBU-69/B SGM
Around 2015, Dynetics began the development of its Small Glide Munition (SGM), in collaboration with the U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM). In 2016, the designation GBU-69/B was allocated. The SGM became operational in 2017, and in 2018 SOCOM placed a production order for 1000 GBU-69/B units.
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| Photo: Dynetics |
| GBU-69/B |
The GBU-69/B is a tube-launched precision-guided glide bomb with a GPS navigation system and a semi-active laser seeker for terminal homing on moving targets. Aerodynamic surfaces are a single piece wing, which rotates into flight position after launch, and three "lattice" type flip-out tail fins. The weapon has a two-way datalink for inflight targeting updates. A notable feature of SGM is the comparatively large blast-fragmentation warhead, which contributes more than half of the weapon's total weight of 27 kg (60 lb). The GBU-69/B has so far been integrated with SOCOM's AC-130J aircraft, and integration tests with unmanned platforms like the MQ-1C Gray Eagle and MQ-9A Reaper are ongoing.
Specifications
Note: Data given by several sources show slight variations. Figures given below may therefore be inaccurate!
Data for GBU-69/B:
| Length | 1.07 m (3.5 ft) |
| Diameter | 11.4 cm (4.5 in) |
| Wingspan | 71 cm (28 in) |
| Weight | 27 kg (60 lb) |
| Range | > 37 km (20 nm) |
| Warhead | 16 kg (36 lb) blast-fragmentation |
Main Sources
[1] Air&Space Forces: GBU-69
Small Glide Munition
[2] Leidos:
Dynetics Successfully Tests GBU-69 Small Glide Munition with Datalink
[3] DefenseNews, Jen Judson:
Dynetics Looks to Fit Niche With Small Glide Munition
[4] Janes, Robin Hughes:
US ARSOAC/USSOCOM
trials GBU-69/B with Gray Eagle UAS
Back to Directory of U.S. Military Rockets and Missiles, Appendix 5
Last Updated: 4 February 2024