The fielding of the Small Diameter Bomb was no mean feat, requiring the constant coordination of military members and civilians at seven locations working on four separate capabilities—the SDB itself, an advanced display core processor, a joint mission planning system, and operational flight program software. Lt. Col. Ed Offutt, Strike Eagle team leader at Aeronautical Systems Command, says “a phenomenal amount of communication and coordination” enabled USAF to field the SDB eight weeks ahead of schedule. The program also was nearly $27 million under budget. Aircrews and maintainers at RAF Lakenheath, Britain, have been integrating the SDB on the 48th Fighter Wing F-15Es, moving toward first operational use this fall.
Air Force General Sentenced In Historic Court-Martial
June 30, 2024
A military judged sentenced an Air Force general on June 29 to a reprimand, restriction to Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph for two months, and $10,000 forfeiture of pay per month for 6 months.