Which JDAM guidance set components provide lift and maneuverability?

• A. Fins
• B. Aero-surfaces
• C. Guidance computer
• D. Sensors

Answer: (B)

Lift and maneuverability in a JDAM come from the aerodynamic control surfaces that can deflect to shape the air flow and generate the necessary forces and moments. These aero-surfaces—the movable surfaces on the tail kit—are what produce lift and steer the bomb during flight, allowing it to change attitude and direction as guided.

The guidance computer provides commands to these surfaces, and sensors feed data to the system, but neither of those alone creates lift. Fins are a type of aero-surface, but the broader category of aero-surfaces best captures all the components that generate lift and control the flight path.