Boeing kicks off US Air Force B-52 bomber radar upgrade
Boeing has begun low-rate initial production of the new radar system for operational testing and evaluation. (Photo: US DoD)
The radar upgrade is part of the wider B-52 modernisation programme that aims to keep the Stratofortress in the air until 2050 and beyond.
Boeing has received the first USAF B-52 Stratofortress to begin upgrades as part of the Radar Modernization Program (RMP).
The company said the programme will give the heavy bomber ‘fighter-like’ radar capabilities by increasing navigation accuracy, targeting and tracking.
The new radar system will also provide new, high-resolution mapping and will be able to engage multiple targets simultaneously.
‘The B-52 brings unique, critical capabilities to the US Air Force as they move to a future two-bomber platform strategy,’ said Jennifer Wong, director of bomber programmes at Boeing.
‘By modernising the B-52 radar, we’re increasing the relevancy of the aircraft for
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![What lessons could Europe learn from air power use in Ukraine?]()
What lessons could Europe learn from air power use in Ukraine?
The use of air power by both sides in the ongoing conflict has been extensively focused on, influencing policy and procurement around the world. But are the lessons from the front line universally applicable, or should other nations be planning for very different scenarios?
-
![Baykar completes Piaggio Aerospace takeover with plans to boost drone production]()
Baykar completes Piaggio Aerospace takeover with plans to boost drone production
The takeover of the Italian firm by Baykar solidifies the company’s efforts to forge closer ties with Italian industry, bolsters its partnership with Leonardo to produce UAVs and secures its foothold in Europe.
-
![Leonardo’s Proteus structural tests “nearing completion” ahead of first flight]()
Leonardo’s Proteus structural tests “nearing completion” ahead of first flight
The company has tested over 15 mission sets for the drone, with the rotorcraft used to demonstrate the viability of armed forces utilising large uncrewed aerial systems’ (UAS) for autonomous missions in the future.
