Title: Ukrainian MiG-29s Equipped with Precision Standoff Strike Capabilities
Subtitle: The addition of JDAM-ER winged smart bombs enhances Ukraine’s airpower
Kyiv, Ukraine – Ukrainian MiG-29 fighter jets have taken on a new role in the country’s defense strategy as precision standoff strike aircraft. The War Zone has confirmed that a portion of Ukraine’s MiG-29 fleet has been modified to carry winged JDAM-ER GPS-guided glide bombs, significantly enhancing their combat capabilities.
In a recent photo released by the Ukrainian Air Force, the smart bombs can be seen mounted on Fulcrums on the ground, with one bomb bearing a message that reads: “Happy anniversary, Valerii Fedorovych! The best gift is dead Russians!” The presence of the inboard weapons pylons on a MiG-29 in June initially hinted at the possibility of such modifications. However, reports suggest that the first airstrikes using the winged bombs actually began in early March, making the acquired capability even more significant.
JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munition) is a guidance kit that transforms conventional “dumb” bombs into precision-guided munitions. The JDAM-ER variant, equipped with wings, can turn an otherwise non-guided bomb from the US-made Mark 80 series into a highly accurate and long-range weapon. The combination of inertial and GPS guidance enables the JDAM-ER to hit static targets with utmost precision, making it a true fire-and-forget weapon.
Unlike Ukraine’s Storm Shadow cruise missiles, which are launched from Su-24 Fencer aircraft and have their onboard turbojet engines, the JDAM-ER relies solely on its wings for glide and lacks any propulsion of its own. This limitation determines the maximum range it can cover during a mission.
The addition of JDAM-ERs to Ukraine’s MiG-29 arsenal highlights the country’s commitment to maximizing the lethality of its existing airframes, even as it waits for the arrival of Western fourth-generation fighters. With support from its Western allies, Ukraine continues to bolster its military capabilities to protect its sovereignty and defend its interests.
The Ukrainian Air Force’s adoption of precision standoff strike capabilities underscores the nation’s determination to enhance its deterrence posture and maintain a robust defense against potential threats.