glidebomb

Glide bombs are gravity-propelled munitions equipped with aerodynamic surfaces that allow them to glide long distances after release from an aircraft. They extend stand-off range beyond traditional free-fall bombs and improve accuracy through an onboard guidance system and control surfaces that steer the weapon to a target.

Most glide bombs consist of a warhead, stabilizing fins or small wings, a guidance/flight-control system, and a data link or seeker in some variants. They rely on gravity for propulsion and achieve extended range by generating lift during glide, with range determined by release altitude, airspeed, and weather conditions.

Guidance systems vary: laser-guided glide bombs use a laser designator; GPS/INS guidance provides autonomous navigation to a waypoint; imaging infrared or electro-optical seekers provide terminal target recognition in some models. Some systems pair GPS/INS with wings to reach tens to hundreds of kilometers; others rely on midcourse updates.

Operational use: They are used by several air forces to strike high-value or time-sensitive targets while minimizing exposure to air defenses. They can be deployed from a range of aircraft and are compatible with existing munitions stocks through mission packages.

Examples and variants: The Paveway family represents laser-guided glide bombs; stand-off GPS/INS-guided glide bombs and variants with imaging seekers are also in service from multiple manufacturers. Glide bombs are distinct from powered missiles in that they do not carry an propulsion system after release, relying on aerodynamics for the glide.