Marine Corps tests eight-bomb StormBreaker release from F-35B

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Published: October 15, 2026

1 source

First reported by: Air & Space Forces Magazine

U.S. Marine CorpsMarine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron 1F-35B Lightning IISmall Diameter Bomb IIStormBreakerRTX RaytheonYuma Proving GroundLockheed Martin

In brief

Marine aviators released eight Small Diameter Bomb IIs from an F-35B in a September test, demonstrating a ripple capability still undergoing integration.

Sources disagree

Factual claims where reporting sources diverge. Treat with care until confirmed by the primary investigator or regulator.

Whether the eight weapons were launched simultaneously or sequentially in a rapid ripple sequence.
The National InterestAir & Space Forces Magazine

The Marine Corps has demonstrated an eight-weapon ripple release of Small Diameter Bomb II weapons from an F-35B, a test milestone for integrating the StormBreaker munition with the short-takeoff-and-vertical-landing variant. Marine aviators from Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron 1 conducted the flight test on September 15 at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, according to Air & Space Forces Magazine, citing Raytheon executive Jon Norman.

A ripple release means that multiple weapons are released in a closely sequenced attack during one pass, rather than requiring the aircraft to…

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