The GBU-27 uses a modified Paveway II guidance control unit which provides "terminal trajectory shaping" for optimum impact angle against various target structures. For example, it will hit an aircraft shelter with a vertical impact, but make a horizontal approach to a bridge support. A Paveway II tail assembly with folding wings completes the bomb.
The F-117 can carry two GBU-27s in two weapons bays and is reportedly capable of hitting a one square meter target from an altitude of 25,000 feet.
Specifications | |
| Mission | Close air support, interdiction, offensive counter air, naval anti- surface warfare |
| Targets | Mobile hard, fixed hard, fixed soft |
| Service | Air Force |
| Program status | Operational |
| First capability | 1987 |
| Guidance method | Laser (man-in-the-loop) |
| Range | Greater than 10 nautical miles |
| Development cost | Not available - Air Force officials state that development cost was not available because they do not have records covering the development period. |
| Production cost | $176.715 million |
| Total acquisition cost | Not available |
| Acquisition unit cost | Not available |
| Production unit cost | $55,000 |
| Quantity | 3,213 |
| Platform | F-117 |