U.S. Approves Sale of GBU-39B Glide Bombs to Romania

The United States has approved the potential sale of up to 400 GBU-39B Small Diameter Bombs (SDB-I) to Romania to equip its F-16A/B MLU fighters, as confirmed by a recent notification from the Department of State to Congress.

The deal, valued at $84 million under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, includes two inert practice bombs, training rounds, support equipment, and technical assistance. Boeing will serve as the principal contractor for the transaction, which aims to enhance Romania’s air combat capabilities within NATO.

The bomb features fold-out wings that allow it to glide over long distances after being released from an aircraft. It uses GPS/INS guidance to accurately hit targets and is designed to minimize collateral damage while increasing strike capabilities.

Romania is currently integrating 32 F-16A/B MLU fighters acquired from Norway, with 16 already in service. These aircraft, alongside those previously purchased from Portugal and the U.S., are replacing the retired MiG-21 Lancer fleet while Romania progresses toward acquiring F-35A stealth fighters.

The sale follows other U.S. approvals in 2024, including 300 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II missiles in May for $340.8 million and up to 186 AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles in August for $592 million. Additionally, a $105 million upgrade package for the Norwegian-sourced F-16s was approved in 2023.