B-2 stealth bomber receives new digital communications system
Northrop Grumman and the USAF continue to modernise the B-2 stealth bomber. (Photo: US DoD)
The demonstration included approximately 50 mission transfers during a two-day period in partnership with the Air Force. A B-2 was configured with the manufacturer’s Multi-Mission Domain (MMD) architecture.
MMD is an open mission system architecture for the aircraft that allows rapid and affordable fielding of modern mission capabilities.
This work is part of ongoing B-2 modernisation efforts that seek to increase the use of digital technologies in the platform.
IAMT provides an enhanced capability, allowing the B-2 to execute digital, machine-to-machine transfers of new missions while in flight, directly integrating them into the aircraft's systems.
This technology is an integral component of Northrop Grumman's B-2 Collaborative Combat Communication (B2C3) Spiral 1 programme, which serves to elevate the stealth bomber’s communication capabilities within the modern battlefield landscape.
‘We are providing the B-2 with the capabilities to communicate and operate in advanced battle management systems and the joint all-domain command and control environment, keeping B-2 ahead of evolving threats,’ said Nikki Kodama, VP and B-2 programme manager at Northrop Grumman.
‘The integration of this digital software with our weapon system will further enhance the connectivity and survivability in highly contested environments as part of our ongoing modernisation effort.’
Modernisation efforts on the Spirit began in 2007 to ensure it remains fully capable against evolving threats.
Northrop Grumman and the USAF announced the continuation of enhancement and modernisation of the B-2 Spirit fleet at the end of last summer, with the new capabilities including long-range stealth missiles.
According to Shephard Defence Insight, the USAF plans to retire the B-2 no later than 2032 due to its operational and maintenance costs.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
NATO’s Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability moves ahead with development contracts
The Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) programme is a transnational effort across NATO to replace a range of helicopters which are expected to begin retiring from the mid-2030s.
-
Raytheon strikes deal with new rocket motor maker to secure supply chain
Raytheon has seen increased demand for its missiles in the face of the Russia-Ukraine war where Kyiv has been using air-to-air missiles for ground-based air-defence.
-
European Common Radar System Mk2 begins ground-testing in UK
BAE Systems hopes to work out any issues before the radar is sent for flight testing.
-
Boeing to upgrade software for KC-46A tanker
The KC-46A upgrades will improve the platform’s mission readiness, performance in challenged airspace and rapid deployment capabilities.
-
Teledyne FLIR promotes ITAR-free Star SAFIRE imaging payload at FIA
The Ultraforce 380-HDc, launched at Farnborough International Airshow, builds on Teledyne FLIR’s successful Star SAFIRE family of systems and is aimed at both the military and security markets.
-
Dutch and Austrian governments collaborate on Embraer C-390 acquisition at Farnborough
The two nations will split the acquisition of the C-390s to boost their airlift capacities.