Mk 81
Summary
| Category | Unguided Bomb |
| Sub-type | General-purpose bomb |
| Origin country | 🇺🇸 United States |
| Manufacturer | General Dynamics |
| Status | In service |
| Year of service | 1954 |
Technical specifications
| Warhead | High-explosive |
| Warhead weight | 44 kg (97 lb) |
| Diameter | 229 mm (9.0 in) |
| Length | 1,219 mm (48.0 in) |
| Weight | 113 kg (249 lb) |
Mk 81 scale diagram
Operators
Description
The Mark 81 is a general-purpose bomb and the smallest variant within the Mark 80 series. Developed in the 1950s, the system entered service in 1954.
The weapon features a forged steel case containing an explosive charge. The Mk 81 Snakeye variant is configured with a tail retarding device. A planned variant for the JDAM program, designated GBU-29, was cancelled.
The bomb was first used in combat during the Vietnam War. Following this conflict, the United States discontinued the weapon for tactical use, though license-built copies remain in service. The system is operated by the United States, Iran, and Turkey.
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Last updated on 4 April 2026.
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