The AEQ BDU-33 practice-bombs are used for training purposes as a low-cost and low-risk alternative to live munitions; simulating the launching conditions of general-purpose bombs, especially in terms of their ballistics trajectory.
AEQ practice-bombs can be launched from supports on aircraft pylons, or from SUU-20 bomb dispensers; they simulate the low drag general-purpose bombs with a smoke cartridge to mark the point of impact.
The BDU-33 practice bomb, used to simulate the dropping of MK bomb, carries a signal cartridge (MK MOD 3/AEQ) that produces a column of white smoke on ground impact.