The Air Force recently awarded Lockheed Martin [LMT] a $34.1 million contract for follow-on production of Paveway II Plus Laser Guided Bomb (LGB) GBU-10, GBU-12 and GBU-16 guidance kits, according to a company statement.
Lockheed Martin will build and deliver the guidance kits in standard GBU-10 MK-84 (2,000-pound), GBU-12 MK-82 (500-pound) and GBU-16 MK-83 (1,000-pound) series configurations. The kits consist of MAU-209C/B computer control groups that contain the electronic guidance system and associated air foil groups that provide lift and stability to the weapons. Production is expected to begin in early 2014.
Lockheed Martin spokesman Melissa Hillard said Wednesday in an email delivery will also begin in early 2014. Hillard said GBU-12 units will be produced first with GBU-10 and GBU-16 units to following in approximately mid-2014.
Hilliard said she couldn’t disclose the quantity ordered.