Military

BLU-97/B Combined Effects Bomb (CEB)

The BLU-97 munitions are soda-can-sized bomblet submunitions that are dispensed in large numbers (approximately 150-200 bomblets per weapon) to attack "soft" area targets. These submunitions are dispensed by several different weapon airframes - the TLAM-D from long range, the JSOW from medium-standoff range, and the CBU-87 tactical munitions dispenser for direct attack.

The body of the submunition is cylindrical in shape, approximately 20 centimeters long, and has a 6 centimeter diameter. It is bright yellow when new. The original Cyclotol explosive has been replaced with PBXN-107 explosive in the IM BLU-97.

The BLU-97/B Combined Effects Bomb (CEB), effective against armor, personnel and material, contains a shaped charge, scored steel casing and zirconium ring for anti-armor, fragmentation and incendiary capability. The bomblet case is made of scored steel designed to break into approximately 300 preformed ingrain fragments for defeating light armor and personnel.

CEB is an effective weapon against such targets as air defense radars, armor, artillery, and personnel. However, because the bomblets are dispensed over a relatively large area and a small percentage of them typically fail to detonate, there is an unexploded-ordnance hazard associated with this weapon. These submunitions are not mines, are acceptable under the laws of armed conflict, and are not timed to go off as anti-personnel devices. However, if the submunitions are disturbed or disassembled, they may explode, thus, the need for early and aggressive unexploded-ordnance clearing efforts. Combined effects munitions remain an appropriate and militarily effective weapon when properly targeted and employed. However, the risk of collateral damage, as with any weapon, must be considered when employing these weapons.