Argentina Tests New 200km-Range Dardo 3 Stand-Off Bomb

Argentina’s Ministry of Defense, in collaboration with the Air Force, has begun testing the Dardo 3 stand-off bomb.

Photographs from aircraft mechanic Jorge Mendez show the weapon being carried by an IA-63 Pampa III B2 combat trainer aircraft during tests at the Flight Test Center.

The Dardo 3 is officially classified as a cruise missile, equipped with a jet engine and a folding wing, allowing it to cover distances of up to 200 km. The bomb is based on the 227 kg Mk.82 U.S. aircraft bomb, modified with the new jet engine and folding wing for increased range. It has a length of 2.6 meters and a maximum diameter of 400 mm, making it compatible with light fighter jets and training aircraft.

Guidance for the Dardo 3 is provided by an inertial system, GPS, and an infrared camera for the final stage of flight. The weapon can also be equipped with additional guidance systems and various warheads, including non-contact detonators. The Dardo family includes several versions, with ranges varying from 40 km (Dardo 1) to 200 km (Dardo 3).

Additionally, the Dardo 3 may be integrated with the country's newly acquired F-16AM fighter jets, purchased from Denmark. Argentina has also requested U.S. equipment for its F-16s, including AIM-120 missiles, MK82 bombs, and various targeting and control systems.