AGM86D

AGM-86D is a variant of the AGM-86 Air Launched Cruise Missile (ALCM), developed and deployed by the United States. The AGM-86 series was designed for the U.S. Air Force to provide strategic nuclear deterrence by enabling long-range, precision strikes against high-value targets. The AGM-86D specifically refers to the version equipped with a conventional, non-nuclear warhead, primarily for maritime and land attack missions.

The missile was first introduced as part of the U.S. strategic arsenal in the late 20th century, with the primary purpose of extending the reach and flexibility of the Air Force's strike capabilities. The AGM-86D features improvements over earlier versions, including enhanced guidance systems and improved reliability. Its guidance package combines inertial navigation, GPS assistance, and terrain contour matching to ensure accurate targeting.

The AGM-86D has a wingspan of approximately 2.8 meters (9.2 feet) and a length of about 6 meters (19.7 feet). It is powered by a turbofan engine, enabling a range of over 600 miles (965 kilometers), making it capable of penetrating advanced air defense systems and striking high-value targets from a safe distance.

Designed primarily for deployment on B-52 Stratofortress bombers, the AGM-86D provides the U.S. with a versatile and survivable delivery platform for its deterrence strategy. Although initially conceived for nuclear deterrence, the missile's conventionally armed variants are also used for precision strike missions, including against enemy ships and ground targets. The missile remains an integral component of the United States’ strategic bomber force.