CBU-87 CEM

The CBU-87 Combined Effects Munition (CEM) entered service in 1986. It was developed to replace cluster bomb models utilized during the Vietnam War.

The system is a cluster bomb unit consisting of an SUU-65B canister containing 202 BLU-97/B submunitions. The BLU-97/B is a combined effects bomblet designed for use against armored vehicles, personnel, and unarmored targets. Each submunition incorporates a shaped charge for anti-armor capability, a scored steel fragmentation case for anti-personnel effects, and a zirconium ring for incendiary action. The CBU-87 is a free-falling munition that relies on aircraft targeting for delivery. The canister utilizes a spin-stabilized release mechanism with six selectable spin rates to control the distribution pattern of the submunitions. Upon release at a predetermined altitude, the canister opens to disperse the bomblets, which utilize inflatable decelerators to stabilize their descent. The area covered by the submunitions is adjustable based on the rate of spin and the altitude of canister opening. The munition features a fuze with 12 time-delay options and can be equipped with an FZU-39/B proximity sensor offering 10 altitude selections. Integration with the Wind Corrected Munitions Dispenser (WCMD) tail kit designates the system as the CBU-103, while use with the WCMD-Extended Range kit results in the CBU-113/B designation.

The CBU-87 is operated by the United States Air Force and is compatible with various aircraft. During Operation Desert Storm, the US Air Force dropped 10,035 units. In Operation Allied Force, approximately 1,100 cluster bombs, primarily CBU-87s, were dropped. On 7 May 1999, the munition was used during the Niš cluster bombing, an incident resulting in civilian fatalities. Reported failure rates for the BLU-97/B submunitions vary; official estimates indicate a 5% dud rate, while independent observations during the Kosovo campaign reported rates between 7% and 8%.