Israeli F-16 Spotted with Unidentified Munition During Iran Missions

An Israeli Air Force (IAF) F-16C/D Barak jet has been photographed carrying a previously unseen variant of the 2,000-pound GBU-31 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) during missions over Iranian territory, including its capital, Tehran. The imagery, initially posted on the IAF’s official X account, shows two of these uniquely marked bombs. While some photos may have been subsequently removed, the presence of these munitions was highlighted in a statement from "Col. A," commander of Ramat David Air Base, who emphasized the deep penetration into enemy airspace despite significant anti-air defenses.

The distinguishing features of these JDAMs are their unusual markings, which include a prominent red band around the nose and a red-painted nose plug, in addition to the standard yellow band indicating high explosives. According to U.S.-standard munitions markings, a red band typically signifies an incendiary payload. This suggests the possibility that these are incendiary bombs, potentially the BLU-119/B Crash PAD, a weapon designed with both high explosives and white phosphorus to neutralize chemical and biological weapon stockpiles.

The BLU-119/B Crash PAD, developed in 2002 for Operation Iraqi Freedom, was specifically intended for use with the JDAM guidance package. Its unique composition, combining approximately 145 pounds of PBX-109 high explosive with 420 pounds of white phosphorus, makes it effective against sensitive targets. The appearance of this potentially incendiary munition on IAF F-16s during operations deep within Iran raises questions about the specific targets and strategic objectives of these missions.