US Military Tactical Shift in Iran
On Wednesday, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a significant shift in military tactics against Iran, with a move towards deploying precision gravity bombs after degrading Iranian air defenses over four days.
Munitions Used So Far
- Previously, the US relied on costly, long-range "standoff munitions" to minimize pilot risk by attacking from outside Iran’s air defense range.
- Such munitions included:
- Tomahawk cruise missiles
- LUCAS drones
Gravity Bombs
Gravity bombs, also known as "free-fall" bombs, lack internal engines and rely on gravity, aerodynamics, and aircraft speed for trajectory. The US has modernized these into precision ammunition using JDAM kits, which feature GPS and steerable fins for accuracy.
Conventional vs. Nuclear Bombs
- Conventional bombs, like those mentioned by Hegseth, use standard chemical explosives and cost $25,000 - $30,000 with JDAM kits.
- Nuclear gravity bombs, such as the B61 and B83, have much higher costs and require presidential authorization due to their potential for global nuclear escalation.
Reasons for Tactical Shift
- The shift from standoff missiles to conventional gravity bombs is a cost-risk trade-off.
- Gravity bombs are cheaper and allow for more extensive bombing but require pilots to fly over or near targets.
- The Pentagon's move assumes air supremacy, having neutralized the Iranian anti-aircraft threat.
Current US Air Force Deployments
The US is now deploying the Mark 80 series of conventional gravity bombs with precision guidance. These versatile munitions can be used by a range of aircraft, from tactical fighters like the F-15E and F-35 to heavy bombers like the B-52.
