F-35 software delays leave UK buying time with US glide bombs

The UK's F-35 fighter fleet will use US-made glide bombs as an interim measure until delayed software updates support the SPEAR 3 mini-cruise missile. The delay in Block 4 software update from Lockheed Martin has pushed back the integration of SPEAR 3 to 2031. The Ministry of Defence has approved the procurement of Small Diameter Bomb (SDB II) to provide an interim stand-off capability.