OVERVIEW: The FAB-100M-80 (Retarded) is an unguided, high-explosive general-purpose bomb equipped with approximately a 40 kg warhead and fitted with a retardation device for low-altitude delivery. Designed for tactical use, it allows safe aircraft separation during ground attack missions at low level.

DETAIL: The FAB-100M-80 belongs to the Soviet FAB-series, with “100” denoting total weight, “M” indicating a modernized version, and “80” reflecting the year of standardization. It is a low-drag, streamlined bomb used primarily for soft targets, open troop formations, and light structures. The variant is built for compatibility with Soviet and Russian fighter-bombers and features a simple steel body and single central fuse well. The baseline model was widely exported and remains in use due to low cost and ease of deployment.

This retarded version integrates a mechanical or parachute-based tail assembly, allowing release at low altitude without risk to the launching aircraft. The device slows the bomb's descent, permitting aircraft to exit the blast zone in time. The modification maintains aerodynamic compatibility and fuze options identical to the standard FAB-100M-80.

It is typically deployed in low-altitude tactical strike missions where rapid delivery is required under threat from ground-based air defenses. The retarded bomb allows for attack runs at treetop level while minimizing risk to the crew. It is ideal for close air support or suppression of exposed enemy formations.

NOTE:
IOC: ~1980s
Operators: Russia, Belarus, Syria, Algeria, Vietnam
Platform: Su-17, Su-24, Su-25, MiG-23BN, MiG-27
Conflicts: Syrian Civil War, Chechen Wars, regional exercises

SOURCE:
Russian Ministry of Defence publications ; Jane’s Air-Launched Weapons ; Rosoboronexport Catalogs ; Military Balance (IISS) ; National Air and Space Intelligence Center (NASIC)