MPM Hobbies 1/48 Scale GBU-24 Paveway III Laser-Guided Bomb
Add authentic precision-guided ordnance to your 1/48 scale jet aircraft models with this detailed 3D printed GBU-24 Paveway III laser-guided bomb from MPM Hobbies. As one of the most effective precision weapons ever developed, the GBU-24 represents the pinnacle of laser-guided bomb technology—and now you can recreate that capability with museum-quality detail on your F-15E Strike Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon, F/A-18 Hornet, and other strike aircraft.
Historical Significance
The GBU-24 Paveway III holds a distinguished place in modern military aviation as an advanced laser-guided bomb designed to defeat heavily defended tactical surface targets when a high degree of accuracy is required. Developed as part of the Paveway III family, the GBU-24 combines the proven BLU-109 hardened penetrator warhead with sophisticated laser guidance and improved aerodynamics, creating a weapon capable of striking targets with unprecedented precision. The GBU-24 saw extensive combat use during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, where it proved devastatingly effective against hardened Iraqi command bunkers, aircraft shelters, and other reinforced structures. The weapon's ability to penetrate several feet of reinforced concrete before detonation made it the weapon of choice for attacking the most heavily protected targets.
Technical Details
The GBU-24 family includes several variants optimized for different operational requirements. The GBU-24A/B consists of a WGU-39/B guidance control unit, a BSU-84/B airfoil group, and an ADU-548/B adapter group attached to a BLU-109/B penetrator bomb. The GBU-24B/B variant features a WGU-39B/B guidance control group, a BSU-84/B airfoil group, and an ADG-770/B adapter group attached to a BLU-109A/B penetrator bomb. These components work together to provide exceptional accuracy and penetration capability. The BLU-109 penetrator warhead features a hardened steel case designed to punch through reinforced concrete, while the laser guidance system homes in on reflected laser energy from a designator, allowing the weapon to strike within feet of the aim point.
Operational Details
The GBU-24 employs a low-level laser guidance system that requires target illumination from a laser designator, which may be ground-mounted or carried in a target-spotting aircraft. The launching aircraft can designate its own target or rely on another platform to provide laser designation, allowing for flexible employment tactics. The improved aerodynamics of the Paveway III design provide greater range and maneuverability compared to earlier Paveway generations, allowing aircraft to release from safer standoff distances while maintaining accuracy. The weapon's hardened penetrator warhead makes it particularly effective against bunkers, command centers, aircraft shelters, and other hardened structures that would resist conventional bombs.
Product Features
- Scale-Accurate Detail - Precisely scaled 1/48 representation with authentic proportions including laser seeker, airfoil group, and BLU-109 penetrator body
- Premium 3D Printed Resin - High-resolution LCD-based SLA printing captures fine details including panel lines, guidance windows, and mounting hardware
- Historically Accurate - Based on reference photos and technical documentation of actual GBU-24 weapons
- Made in the USA - Designed, printed, and quality-controlled by MPM Hobbies in America
- Versatile Compatibility - Suitable for multiple strike aircraft types that carry the GBU-24 system
- Complete Weapon - Includes all major components for authentic appearance
Compatible Aircraft Models
The GBU-24 is carried by numerous US strike aircraft. This weapon is ideal for detailing the following 1/48 scale aircraft:
- F-15E Strike Eagle - Primary precision strike platform
- F-16 Fighting Falcon - Multi-role fighter
- F/A-18 Hornet - Navy strike fighter
- F-117 Nighthawk - Stealth attack aircraft
- B-2 Spirit - Stealth bomber
3D Printing Information
Item(s) is/are LCD-based SLA printed using UV cured resin and will be shipped unpainted and with 3D print supports attached. Item can be primed with acrylic, lacquer or enamel type paint. Lightly sand and/or prime any horizontal striations due to the printing process. Remove supports starting from the tip down and start by freeing those supports connected to small and fragile details. Recommend using CA for attaching item to model or filling any imperfections. Item(s) will have features that are brittle or extremely delicate and prone to breaking if not properly handled. 3D print support configurations may be different than the ones in the photos if applicable. Photos may include the CAD rendered file used for printing to highlight details that do not stand out well in regular photos. Not intended for small children due to choking hazard and should only be purchased by experienced modelers due fine details and printer support removal. The number of items in your order is calculated by multiplying the quantity you selected by the number of items per set if applicable. All items are printed in the order they are purchased.
Modeling Tips
For best results, clean any support material carefully with a sharp hobby knife and test-fit the weapon to your aircraft's pylon or bomb rack before final assembly. Prime the resin with a quality primer designed for resin parts, then paint according to your chosen scheme. Most GBU-24 weapons are finished in overall olive drab or dark gray with yellow or white stenciling and markings. Reference photos will help ensure accurate finish and markings for your specific aircraft and time period.
Complementary Products at MPM Hobbies
- MPM Aircraft Resins collection - Complete range of ordnance, cockpit details, and aircraft upgrades
- 1/48 MPM Bombs - Additional ordnance options for your aircraft models
- 1/48 GBU-15 Unpowered Glide Bomb - Alternative precision-guided weapon
- Other GBU-24 variants in 1/32 scale and 1/72 scale
About MPM Hobbies
MPM Hobbies specializes in precision 3D printed resin upgrades and accessories for scale aircraft, armor, and ship models. Every product is designed using historical references and technical documentation to ensure maximum accuracy and detail. Our commitment to quality and authenticity has made us a trusted source for serious modelers seeking to elevate their builds beyond kit standards. For additional technical information about the GBU-24, visit the GBU-24 reference page at Bulletpicker.com as a way to find information about their products.
Bring modern precision strike capability to life with the authentic GBU-24 Paveway III laser-guided bomb from MPM Hobbies - your source for premium scale modeling accessories.