US approves JDAM-ER munitions for Saudi Arabia

The US State Department has approved a possible $5 billion Foreign Military Sale of JDAM Extended Range equipment and support to Saudi Arabia. The package centres on Boeing's GBU-62 configuration, combining GPS and inertial guidance, body strakes and a wing kit that can extend glide range beyond 70 kilometres. Associated training, logistics and support would help Saudi forces employ the precision-guided weapons at greater standoff distance. Congressional notification authorizes negotiations but is not a signed contract, and final quantities, price, delivery schedule and configuration may change before any agreement is concluded.