What are Cluster Bombs?

Cluster bombs are a type of explosive weapons that disperse multiple explosive sub-munitions over a large area. When the mainmunitions disperse, the sub-munitions scatter, covering a much wider area than a single bomb would. The intention of cluster bombs is to maximize the amount of destruction on an enemy, often within a short period of time.

History of Cluster Bombs

The first recorded use of cluster bombs dates back to World War I, when the Zeppelins that were used for bombing missions would drop multiple small bombs in the hopes of increasing their destructive capability. The concept of the cluster bomb was refined in World War II, when aerial bombs with a cluster of smaller “bomblets” were first used. After the war, the United States picked up on the concept and developed technology to deploy them much more effectively. The modern cluster bomb was first used in the late 1950s, but they really began to be widely used during the Vietnam War.

Global Ban of Cluster Bombs

Cluster bombs have drawn the ire of human rights and anti-war advocates due to the severe civilian casualties they have caused in the past. As such, more than 100 countries have signed the 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions, which bans the use of the bombs. However, some countries, such as the United States, China, and Russia, have not yet signed the treaty, though their militaries have ceased using cluster bombs due to ethical concerns.