The KAB-250 (Russian: КАБ-250, a Cyrillic acronym for Корректируемая Авиационная Бомба, meaning "Corrected Aviation Bomb" or "Guided Aerial Bomb") is a family of Russian precision-guided munitions. Designed for use by tactical aircraft, these bombs are intended to provide high-accuracy strikes against a variety of ground targets, including fortified positions, armored vehicles, and infrastructure.
Design and Characteristics
The "250" in its designation refers to its nominal weight class of 250 kilograms (approximately 550 pounds). KAB-250 bombs are typically equipped with advanced guidance systems, allowing them to be directed to their targets with high precision. Common guidance methods include:
- Laser guidance: Utilizes a laser designator, either from the launching aircraft, another aircraft, or ground forces, to illuminate the target. The bomb then homes in on the reflected laser energy.
- Satellite guidance (GLONASS/GPS): Employs signals from global navigation satellite systems (such as Russia's GLONASS or the American GPS) for autonomous guidance to pre-programmed coordinates. This allows for all-weather, fire-and-forget capabilities.
The bomb generally features aerodynamic control surfaces and a robust warhead designed for effectiveness against various target types. Its compact size makes it suitable for internal carriage on stealth aircraft or external carriage on a wide range of tactical fighter and bomber aircraft.
Operational Use
The KAB-250 series has been integrated into the arsenals of modern Russian combat aircraft, including advanced fighters like the Su-34, Su-35, and Su-57. It represents Russia's effort to develop a counterpart to Western precision-guided munitions, offering a versatile and accurate stand-off attack capability.
Variants
While the KAB-250 broadly refers to the 250 kg class, specific variants may exist with different guidance packages or warhead types (e.g., concrete-penetrating or high-explosive fragmentation). Details on every specific sub-variant are often classified or only available through specialized defense publications.