U.S. Executes First JDAM Bombing in Sweden, Reinforcing NATO’s Northern Defense Posture

STOCKHOLM — On March 11, 2025, the U.S. Air Force conducted a significant military operation in Sweden, marking the first use of GBU-38 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) guided bombs as part of NATO’s escalating capabilities. This operation, part of Bomber Task Force VIKING NEBULA, highlights Sweden’s integration into the Alliance following its accession in March 2024 and demonstrates enhanced interoperability between U.S. and Swedish forces.

The tests took place at a Swedish military training ground, where American B-52H Stratofortress bombers collaborated with the Swedish Air Force and ground units to deploy GBU-38 bombs. This marked the first instance of combat-guided munitions being used on the territory of a new NATO member, underscoring the alliance’s commitment to strengthening its position in Northern Europe amidst rising security concerns. Analysts suggest that this bombing could serve as a strategic signal to Russia.

The B-52H Stratofortress, a cornerstone of U.S. military power since the mid-20th century, can execute missions over distances exceeding 8,000 kilometers without refueling, making it an ideal asset for force projection and strategic deterrence. Equipped with a diverse array of precision munitions, including JDAM bombs and AGM-86B cruise missiles, the B-52H remains a formidable component of the U.S. arsenal.

The GBU-38 JDAM, used in these tests, is a 227-pound guided munition featuring a GPS/INS navigation system that transforms conventional free-fall bombs into precision weapons capable of striking targets with minimal deviation, even under challenging conditions or when GPS signals are compromised. This type of weapon, along with heavier variants such as the GBU-31 and GBU-32, is favored by NATO nations for its versatility and reliability, solidifying its role as a crucial element of the alliance’s military capabilities.