Which 500lb bomb is a laser and GPS guided bomb?

Which 500lb bomb is a laser and GPS guided bomb?

• A. GBU-49
• B. GBU-51
• C. GBU-53
• D. GBU-54

Answer: (A)

Dual-mode guidance combines GPS/INS navigation with a semi-active laser seeker, giving a bomb both stand-off accuracy and precise terminal guidance when a laser designation is available. The 500-pound bomb that actually integrates both modes is the GBU-49, often referred to as the Viper, which can home to GPS coordinates or be guided by a laser spot. This dual capability is what sets it apart from other 500-pound options that are laser-guided only or rely on GPS alone. In practice, the GBU-49 gives pilots flexibility: use GPS for general targeting when laser designation isn’t possible, or switch to laser guidance for precise engagement on a designated target.

Dual-mode guidance combines GPS/INS navigation with a semi-active laser seeker, giving a bomb both stand-off accuracy and precise terminal guidance when a laser designation is available. The 500-pound bomb that actually integrates both modes is the GBU-49, often referred to as the Viper, which can home to GPS coordinates or be guided by a laser spot. This dual capability is what sets it apart from other 500-pound options that are laser-guided only or rely on GPS alone. In practice, the GBU-49 gives pilots flexibility: use GPS for general targeting when laser designation isn’t possible, or switch to laser guidance for precise engagement on a designated target.