Paveway II – GBU-12/16/10 Overview
The Paveway II family of Laser-Guided Bombs (LGBs) are precision strike weapons that guide onto a coded infrared laser spot, typically designated by the launching aircraft, a wingman (buddy lasing), or a JTAC.
They’re ideal for stationary or slow-moving targets in clear weather, especially when collateral damage must be minimized.
🧱 Bomb Breakdown
| Variant | Warhead | Weight | Based On |
|---|---|---|---|
| GBU-10 | Mk-84 | 2000 lb | High-drag general-purpose bomb |
| GBU-16 | Mk-83 | 1000 lb | Balanced between punch and weight |
| GBU-12 | Mk-82 | 500 lb | Lightest, best for CAS or precision strikes |
Each LGB consists of:
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A Mk 8x series bomb body
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A laser seeker head
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A guidance computer
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A maneuvering tail kit
🎯 Guidance Principles
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Seeks reflected laser energy from a specific 4-digit laser code (e.g., 1688)
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Can only guide when laser is active and visible to seeker
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No GPS – loses guidance if the laser is blocked or turned off
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Best for direct line-of-sight attacks in clear weather
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Cannot guide behind mountains, through clouds, or if laser is obstructed
📏 Range & Employment Envelope
| Altitude | Release Range (approx.) |
|---|---|
| 20,000 ft | 7–8 nm |
| 10,000 ft | 3–4 nm |
| 5,000 ft | 1.5–2.5 nm |
Higher altitude = greater standoff, but increased exposure to SAMs.
🧠 Best Use Cases
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Static SAM sites
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Buildings, bunkers
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Vehicles and convoys (stationary or slow)
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Bridges, radars
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Situations requiring surgical precision or minimum collateral damage
⚠️ Limitations
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Must maintain line of sight to target during guidance
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Weather and terrain can break the laser
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Laser code must match between seeker and designator
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Not fire-and-forget — pilot or buddy must continuously lase