American defense giant RTX (Raytheon Technologies) is reaching the final stretch in creating a modified version of the StormBreaker precision-guided bomb. The company is preparing to conduct flight tests of the new munition variant, which has achieved significantly extended range thanks to the installation of a new engine.

Technological Breakthrough and Development Speed

The key change in the new bomb configuration is the integration of a modified TJ-150 turbojet engine manufactured by Pratt & Whitney — a division within the RTX structure. This collaboration allowed for the combination of Raytheon's expertise in munitions with advanced propulsion technologies.

According to Defence Industry EU, cited by RBC-Ukraine, the project has demonstrated impressive implementation speed. The journey from the conceptual idea to the stage preceding flight tests was completed in less than 12 months. Such dynamics were made possible because the development was included in RTX's list of strategic priorities.

Project Secrets and Lack of Details

Despite the progress, RTX maintains strict secrecy regarding the key parameters of the new weapon. The company has declined to disclose:

  • The expected range of the modified bomb;
  • Exact dates and locations of the planned tests;
  • Names of potential customers and planned production volumes;
  • Timelines for when the munition will be available for operational use.

The extended-range StormBreaker project is part of a package of technological initiatives highlighted by the corporation in the current quarter.

History and Context of GBU-53/B

The original version of the GBU-53/B StormBreaker is an American 113 kg precision-guided glide bomb. Development, which began in 2006, aimed to create a weapon capable of identifying and engaging mobile targets in any weather conditions. The prototype's first flight took place on May 1, 2009, and a contract for serial production was signed with Raytheon in June 2015. The bomb was initially developed for integration with F-15E Strike Eagle and F/A-18 Super Hornet fighters.

Reaction in the Arms Market

The emergence of the upgraded StormBreaker version comes against the backdrop of active work by other players on similar solutions. It was previously reported that several Ukrainian companies are also developing guided aerial bombs equipped with turbojet engines for launch beyond the range of enemy air defenses. Furthermore, Ukraine has already created its own version of a guided aerial bomb ready for combat use.