US Approves $84 Million Sale of Small Diameter Bombs to Romania

Romania is set to enhance its aerial strike capabilities with the acquisition of 400 GBU-39B Small Diameter Bombs (SDB-I) from the United States in an $84-million foreign military sale. This procurement aligns with Bucharest’s broader strategy to strengthen its defense posture within NATO and modernize its air force, which operates a fleet of F-16 fighter jets capable of deploying these precision-guided munitions.

A Strategic Step in Romania’s Defense Modernization

The purchase of these advanced munitions underscores Romania’s commitment to maintaining interoperability with NATO forces, particularly in coalition air operations. The country has been steadily upgrading its aerial capabilities, and this latest deal follows a massive $6.5-billion agreement in 2023 to procure 32 F-35A Lightning II fighter jets. The F-35s, expected to be delivered in the early 2030s, will also be equipped to deploy the SDBs, reinforcing Romania’s long-term military modernization efforts.

What’s Included in the Deal?

The approved arms package includes:

• 400 GBU-39B SDB-I munitions – precision-guided bombs designed for low-collateral damage strikes.
• GBU-39 (T-1)/B inert practice bombs – used for pilot training and operational drills.
• GBU-39 tactical training rounds – simulation weapons to refine combat tactics.
• Common munitions built-in-test/reprogramming equipment – essential for maintenance and operational readiness.
• ADU-890E computer test set adapter groups – critical support equipment for ensuring bomb functionality.
• Containers, spare parts, and logistics support – to sustain the long-term use of the weapon system.

Small Diameter Bombs: A Game Changer

The GBU-39B SDB-I, developed by Boeing, has been operational since 2006 and remains one of the most effective low-cost precision strike weapons available today. Measuring 70.8 inches (180 cm) in length and 7.5 inches (19 cm) in width, the bomb is lightweight yet highly capable, with a range exceeding 60 nautical miles (69 miles/111 kilometers). It uses an inertial navigation system (INS) and global positioning system (GPS) for pinpoint accuracy, making it an ideal weapon for precision airstrikes with minimal collateral damage.

Growing Use of SDBs in Regional Conflicts

Romania’s move to acquire these bombs comes at a time when Ukraine has been using SDBs against Russian forces since late 2023. The US Air Force placed a $6.9-billion order for additional SDBs in October 2024, ensuring a steady supply of these weapons for allied nations. Given Romania’s strategic location near the Black Sea and its proximity to the ongoing Ukraine conflict, the acquisition of these munitions is a clear signal of its readiness to respond to regional threats and contribute more effectively to NATO operations.

Strengthening Romania’s Role in NATO’s Defense Network

As tensions in Eastern Europe continue to rise, Romania is reinforcing its position as a key NATO ally. The addition of precision-guided SDBs will not only improve its air force’s strike capabilities but also ensure it remains an active participant in NATO-led deterrence and defense missions. With its F-16 fleet currently in service and F-35s on the horizon, Romania is steadily advancing toward becoming one of the most capable air forces in the region.

This latest purchase is a testament to Romania’s commitment to strengthening its military and upholding NATO’s collective security framework.