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: A Mk 8x series bomb body A laser seeker head A guidance computer A maneuvering tail kit 🎯 Guidance Principles Seeks reflected laser energy from a specific 4-digit laser code (e.g., 1688) Can only guide when laser is active and visible to seeker No GPS – loses guidance if the laser is blocked or turned off Best for direct line-of-sight attacks in clear weather Cannot guide behind mountains, through clouds, or if laser is obstructed πŸ“ 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 Static SAM sites Buildings, bunkers Vehicles and convoys (stationary or slow) Bridges, radars Situations requiring surgical precision or minimum collateral damage ⚠️ Limitations Must maintain line of sight to target during guidance Weather and terrain can break the laser Laser code must match between seeker and designator Not fire-and-forget β€” pilot or buddy must continuously lase