GBU-39

The nose cone, found at the front of the munition, is made from hardened steel – enabling the munition to penetrate more than three feet of reinforced concrete. The heavy metal construction of this component means it typically survives the bomb functioning, despite its proximity to the explosives.

(OSMP 554, 679, 1007)

An extendable wing assembly is attached below the warhead section of the munition, creating a distinctive V-shape when deployed. This wing configuration permits longer, flatter ‘gliding’ attack angles during strikes. These wings are often recovered after explosion, because they can be sheared off as the bomb penetrates structures before detonating – resulting in them being found outside the building or floor where the munition impacted.

(OSMP 573, 586, 770)

JOE EMMETT TO ADD SENTENCES. The warhead rarely survives unless the munition fails to function and explode on impact.

(OSMP 745, 637, 736)

The fuzewell, located at the base of the warhead, holds the munition fuze and is often found intact after the munition explodes. This is because when the fuze functions and the warhead detonates, the fuzewell is often ejected from the bomb’s body.

(OSMP 624, 702, 1012)

The tail is located in the rear of the munition – the farthest point from the explosive. In flight, the munition’s trajectory is adjusted by GPS and inertial guidance commands, which control the four tail-fins on the rear tail actuation system. The tail, including a thermal battery, is often found partly or largely intact following the munition’s functioning.

OSMP 530, 678, 737