The MK 82 Snake Eye is not a single, monolithic weapon system, but rather a family of guided bombs based on the venerable unguided MK 82 general-purpose bomb. Understanding its capabilities requires examining its evolution and the various guidance kits used to transform this simple bomb into a precision-guided munition (PGM). This detailed exploration will cover its history, functionality, and applications.
What is the MK 82 Bomb?
Before delving into the "Snake Eye" aspect, let's establish a foundation. The MK 82 is a 500-pound (227 kg) general-purpose bomb, a workhorse of air forces worldwide. Its simplicity and effectiveness have ensured its longevity. It's relatively inexpensive to produce and easy to handle, making it a staple in numerous inventories. The MK 82, however, lacks precision. This is where guidance kits come into play.
How Does the Snake Eye Guidance Kit Work?
The term "Snake Eye" isn't a formal military designation but rather a colloquial term often associated with specific guidance kits used to upgrade the MK 82. These kits generally employ one of several technologies, including:
Laser Guidance:
Laser-guided versions utilize a laser designator, typically located on the aircraft or a separate ground unit, to illuminate the target. The bomb's seeker head then follows the reflected laser energy, guiding it towards the designated point of impact. This provides relatively high accuracy.
GPS Guidance:
GPS-guided MK 82s rely on signals from the Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites to determine their location and navigate to pre-programmed coordinates. This allows for strikes against targets even when visual contact is not possible or the weather is poor.
INS/GPS Guidance (Inertial Navigation System/GPS):
Some versions combine GPS with an inertial navigation system (INS). The INS provides short-term navigation, while GPS offers longer-term accuracy and correction. This hybrid approach increases resilience against GPS jamming or signal loss.
What are the Advantages of Guided MK 82s?
The primary advantage of converting an unguided MK 82 into a guided variant lies in increased accuracy. This translates to:
- Reduced Collateral Damage: Precise strikes minimize harm to non-combatants and civilian infrastructure.
- Increased Effectiveness: Fewer bombs are needed to achieve the same military objective, resulting in cost savings and reduced logistical demands.
- Improved Engagement Range: Guided bombs can be released from longer ranges, keeping aircraft further away from enemy defenses.
What are the Disadvantages of Guided MK 82s?
While guided versions of the MK 82 offer significant benefits, some drawbacks exist:
- Cost: Guidance kits add considerably to the overall cost per bomb.
- Complexity: Guided bombs are more complex to maintain and require specialized training.
- Vulnerability to Electronic Warfare: GPS-guided bombs can be susceptible to jamming or spoofing.
What are some Examples of Guided MK 82 Variants?
While "Snake Eye" is a common term, many manufacturers produce different guidance kits for the MK 82. Specific designations vary by nation and manufacturer, and a comprehensive list isn't feasible here. However, understanding the underlying guidance technologies (laser, GPS, INS/GPS) helps identify these variations.
What is the Difference Between a Guided MK 82 and Other Precision Guided Munitions?
The primary difference lies in size and payload. Other PGMs, such as the Paveway series or Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs), may have larger payloads or more advanced guidance systems. The MK 82, even in its guided form, remains a relatively smaller, lighter bomb compared to some of its counterparts. This smaller size offers advantages in certain scenarios, such as when employing multiple munitions in a single strike or when aircraft payload capacity is limited.
This overview provides a detailed examination of the MK 82 and its guided variants. The term "Snake Eye," while not official, highlights the transformative impact of precision guidance on a classic general-purpose bomb. The choice of guidance technology depends heavily on mission requirements, target characteristics, and the availability of support systems.
