Fact Check: "The MK-82 bomb weighs 230 kg (500 lb)"
What We Know
The MK-82 bomb, also known as the Mark 82, is a widely used unguided, low-drag general-purpose bomb in the United States military arsenal. According to Wikipedia, the MK-82 has a nominal weight of 500 pounds (approximately 230 kg). It is one of the smallest bombs currently in service and is recognized for its versatility and commonality in air-dropped weaponry. The actual weight of the MK-82 can vary depending on its configuration, ranging from 510 to 570 pounds (approximately 232 to 259 kg) in different setups, but its nominal weight is consistently cited as 500 pounds (230 kg) across multiple sources, including ThreatDB and a PDF from the MAPS Air Museum (source-6).
Analysis
The claim that the MK-82 bomb weighs 230 kg (500 lb) is supported by multiple credible sources. The primary source, Wikipedia, provides a comprehensive overview of the MK-82, detailing its specifications, including its nominal weight. The information is corroborated by the MAPS Air Museum's PDF, which also states the nominal weight as 500 lb (227 kg) and notes the variations based on configuration (source-6).
Moreover, ThreatDB further confirms the nominal weight of 500 lb (230 kg) and discusses the bomb's characteristics and uses, reinforcing the reliability of the information. The consistency of the nominal weight across these sources indicates a high level of reliability, as they are based on technical specifications and military documentation.
While the MK-82's actual weight can vary, the claim focuses specifically on its nominal weight, which is widely accepted in military and defense literature. The sources cited are credible and authoritative, with Wikipedia being a well-regarded reference for general information, and the other sources providing specific technical data.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that "The MK-82 bomb weighs 230 kg (500 lb)" is accurate based on multiple reliable sources that confirm the nominal weight of the bomb. While there may be variations in weight depending on configuration, the nominal weight remains consistently cited as 500 lb (230 kg), validating the claim.
