GB-4 explained

GB-4 (Glide Bomb No.4) [1] [2] [3]
Origin:United States
Is Missile:yes
Service:Combat Tested[4]
Production Date:1944
Number:1,200
Weight:2535lb
Length:12.2feet
Diameter:24inches
Filling Weight:2000lb
Detonation:T62 Impact Fuze
Primary Armament:AN-M66 General Purpose Bomb
Engine:none
Payload Capacity:2000lb
Vehicle Range:17miles Preferred
Speed:NaNmph
Guidance:Block III (AN/AXT-2) television equipment and remote radio control

GB-4 (Glide Bomb No.4) was a precision guided munition developed by the United States during World War II.[1] GB-4s used a television guidance system with the weapon being steered by a TV bombardier operating a joystick in the launch aircraft.[4]

The first GB-4s (then known as MX-607s) were tested at Eglin Air Force Base during August 1943.[2] During testing the GB-4's circular error probable accuracy was found to be 200feet.[1] [3] The type was ordered into production on the 15 January 1944. Although approved for operational use, the typed suffered from reliability problems throughout testing.[2]

The GB-4 was briefly used in combat[1] [4] by the 388th Bomber Group,[2] based in eastern England, but its performance was deemed unsatisfactory.[4] 1,200 GB-4's were delivered to the USAAF however poor combat results lead to a decision to halt further deliveries in February 1945.[2]

See also

Notes and References

  1. Guidance and Homing of Missiles and Pilotless Aircraft. 1946. AAF (US) Scientific Advisory Group, Wright Field. 5. https://web.archive.org/web/20220205143749/https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/citations/ADB807471. live. February 5, 2022.
  2. Book: Zaloga, Steven J. American Guided Missiles of World War II. 2020. Osprey. 9781472839275. 40–45.
  3. OP 1664, US Explosive Ordnance, Volume 2. 1947. Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA). 559.
  4. The Airforce and the National Guided Missile Program 1944-1950. Rosenberg. Max. 1964. USAF Historical Liaison Office. 11.