The Laser Joint Direct Attack Munition is a GPS/INS guided, autonomous, all-weather attack weapon for use against fixed and moving targets.
It is a joint USAF-Navy development that combines a laser guidance kit with the GPS/INS-based navigation of the existing GBU-38 JDAM. The current LJDAM is a dual-mode 500-lb guided weapon capable of attacking moving targets with precision.
It was developed as an urgent operational need, and testing was completed in less than 17 months. It was first delivered in May 2008 and deployed in combat in Iraq three months later.
Boeing is also developing GBU-31 (2,000-lb) and GBU-32 (1,000-lb) variants. The F-35 is currently undergoing tri-service testing to integrate the GBU-38/54 for operational use.
Contractor: Boeing.
First Flight: 2005.
IOC: 2008.
Active Variants: •GBU-54 Laser JDAM. Laser/GPS/INS guided 500-lb GP, or BLU-111 penetrating weapon. •GBU-56 Laser JDAM. Laser/GPS/INS guided 2,000-lb GP, or BLU-109 penetrating weapon.
Dimensions: Length (with JDAM and warhead) approx 8 ft.
Performance: Range up to 15 miles.
Guidance: GPS/INS with laser.
Warhead: Mk 82 500-lb munition.
Integration: F-15E, F-16. Planned: F-35, B-1B (GBU-56).