What is the net explosive weight (NEW) of the GBU-39?

The net explosive weight (NEW) of the GBU-39, also known as the Small Diameter Bomb (SDB), is 37 pounds. This figure is important because it indicates the amount of explosive material contained within the bomb, which is a critical factor in assessing its effectiveness and potential damage radius when deployed. Understanding the NEW helps in planning operations and assessing the bomb's implications on both target destruction and collateral damage. The GBU-39 is designed to be precision-guided and has a lower NEW compared to larger bombs, making it suitable for minimizing unintended damage while still effectively destroying targets.