DSEI: Raytheon delivers first B-52 AESA radar to Boeing
The first improved radar has been delivered for the B-52 modernisation programme. (Photo: Raytheon)
RTX, through its business division Raytheon, has delivered the first AESA radar for the B-52 Radar Modernization Program (RMP), enhancing the aircraft's capabilities with improved navigation, targeting and detection range.
The B-52's new radar will enable improved mapping and detection range and increase the number of targets the bomber can engage simultaneously. Along with improved modes and capabilities, the AESA radar will help crews see further, more accurately and have increased situational awareness.
It is based on the AN/APG-79 and key upgrades under RMP include a new, wide-band radome on the aircraft’s nose; two high-definition, touch-screen, large-area displays; two display sensor system processors that will connect the radar with other B-52 systems and two hand controllers.
Under the contract, Raytheon is designing, developing and producing the radar systems for the entire USAF B-52 fleet and the first radar will be used for system integration, verification and testing.
Related Articles
Boeing kicks off US Air Force B-52 bomber radar upgrade
Initial F130 engine tests for USAF B-52J bomber due to complete by end 2023
The advanced radar upgrade will ensure the aircraft remains relevant and mission ready through its lifetime.
The remaining test-phase radars are expected to be delivered through the summer of 2024.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![Leonardo plans to fly uncrewed fighters alongside M-346 aircraft by mid-2026]()
Leonardo plans to fly uncrewed fighters alongside M-346 aircraft by mid-2026
The two uncrewed fighter aircraft will be made in conjunction with Baykar, which joined forces with Leonardo under LBA Systems in June 2025 to develop and produce uncrewed aerial systems for the international market.
-
![UK firm Skycutter comes out top in first US Drone Dominance Program competition]()
UK firm Skycutter comes out top in first US Drone Dominance Program competition
The startup was the only UK company to take part in the first Gauntlet for the programme, joining forces with its Ukraine partner to participate in the event.
-
![Robinson launches new uncrewed aircraft business unit, unveils new UAS cargo platform]()
Robinson launches new uncrewed aircraft business unit, unveils new UAS cargo platform
The new entity incorporates crewed and uncrewed capabilities to tackle a variety of mission demands in both defence and commercial markets.
-
![What will the replacement of A-10s by F-35s mean for the US Air Force?]()
What will the replacement of A-10s by F-35s mean for the US Air Force?
The USAF plans to phase out its 162 in-operation A-10 Thunderbolt II Warthogs by the end of FY2026, replacing them with F-35As which will bring a leap in capabilities in terms of lethality, survivability and speed.
