The Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) displayed an ominous looking bomb at the Air Force Association show. Scary as it looks, the Focused Lethality Munition (FLM) is an ultra-low collateral damage version of the Small Diameter Bomb (SDB).
The FLM uses a multiphase-blast explosive fill developed by AFRL. The weapon is designed to be carried on the Small Diameter Bomb BRU-61/A four-place carriage.
The weapon is meant for "precision engagements of selected targets with limited damage outside the blast zone," according to Boeing marketing materials. The weapon incorporates a carbon fiber composite warhead case and advanced multi-phase blast explosive to minimize steel fragmentation.
The 250-lb. class weapon has an advanced Anti-Jam GPS aided Inertial Navigation System.
Sferrin, the fill is Dense Inert metal explosive (DIME), which, theoretically will deliver a "lethal blast" with low collateral damage. Geogen, not sure on Viper strike, but I can tell you AFRL is working to mature the FLM tech alongside Boeing now. According to Boeing, USAF acquisition of the munition is being managed by PEO Weapons out of Eglin, AFB. I don't know the value of the contract, but I know it includes development, production, sustainment of the carriage and weapons and all the equipment needed to field the FLM.
Thanks for info, Bettina and thanks for your reporting.
IMHO, I don't know why, but I have to say that this FLM concept looks to be a 1/4 scale sized prototype of some future jet-ski recreational vehicle.. Maybe Yamaha could get in touch with this PEO Weapons, and do a joint-venture??
BTW, regardless of this prototype system being longer ranged...what's the latest status of Viper strike? Not required anymore?
IMHO, I don't know why, but I have to say that this FLM concept looks to be a 1/4 scale sized prototype of some future jet-ski recreational vehicle.. Maybe Yamaha could get in touch with this PEO Weapons, and do a joint-venture??