B-52 Stratofortress gets biggest upgrade since 1960

On May 30, the US Air Force officially announced that it had begun the AESA integration process as part of its B-52 radar modernization program. This is a major upgrade for the B-52 fleet, marking “one of the largest upgrades” in the history of the aircraft. The project is estimated to cost about $2.8 billion, with the ability to officially operate in 2027.

“AESA replaces 1960s-era radar systems and significantly enhances the B-52’s navigation and targeting capabilities in high-threat areas,” said Col. Louis Ruscetta, of the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center.

The new radar system gives the B-52 the ability to identify and attack multiple targets over a large area.

In addition to high situational awareness and navigation capabilities, AESA radars offer high adaptability options by allowing software modifications to incorporate new features to respond to future threats.

The process of installing the new radar on the B-52 is being carried out by Boeing and Raytheon, with Boeing bringing its experience and deep platform knowledge as an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for the US Air Force’s mainstay bomber, and Raytheon’s expertise in radar technology.

The modernization of the iconic US bomber, the B-52 Stratofortress, includes the installation of new equipment, avionics, radars and engines. According to the US Air Force's fiscal 2024 budget document, the B-52H bomber will be renamed B-52J after being equipped with new generation Rolls Royce F130 engines.

This overhaul aims to enhance the capabilities of the oldest strategic bomber in the US military, thereby ensuring its relevance and effectiveness in the current global security context.

The new AESA radar system enhances long-range response capabilities and optimizes the B-52's lethality, especially in engagements with peer opponents.

The US “Flying Fortress” uses the outdated AN/APQ-166 radar system manufactured in the 1960s. Meanwhile, the AESA radar developed by Raytheon has modern features and the ability to overcome the shortcomings of the old system. The replacement radar model is designated APG-79B4 based on the APG-79/APG-82 system currently equipped on the US Navy's F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet.

In addition, the new system also incorporates elements from the F-15 Strike Eagle, improving mapping and target range functions. This allows the B-52 to precisely position bombs and attack multiple targets over a larger area.

The new upgrade reduces the B-52 crew by one person, down to four pilots, according to the air force.

(According to EurAsian Times)

Source