On May 25, a B-52 from the 307th Bomb Wing arrived at a Boeing Co. plant in San Antonio to begin getting the Air Force's B-52 Radar Modernization Program's Active Electronically Scanned Array system (AESA). "The arrival of this aircraft is a big deal, and it signals the beginning of a key part of our effort to modernize the B-52 fleet," said Col. Louis Ruscetta, Senior Materiel Leader for the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center's B-52 Program Office, which is leading the Radar Modernization Program and the overall effort to modernize the bomber.
"AESA will replace 1960s radar technology, greatly improving the B-52's navigation and targeting capabilities in higher threat areas." AESA is meant to be extensible, so that new capabilities to meet future threats can be introduced by software upgrades, in addition to greater situational awareness, navigation, and targeting capability. Both Boeing and Raytheon are actively involved in the installation.
"Boeing is the OEM [original equipment manufacturer] for the B-52, so their long-standing history and knowledge of the platform is really critical to making sure we can get this [AESA] out as quickly as possible," he said. "We're also collaborating with Raytheon on radar." Overall, the collaboration helps to ensure that we have a government off-the-shelf solution that minimizes development and shortens both development and test schedules."
The installation of AESA is one of the most significant modifications to the B-52 fleet in its history. The project will cost about $2.8 billion, with the first operational capability expected in 2027. "Sustainability is a critical component of this effort because the old radar is unsustainable," Ruscetta explained. "The increase in combat capability that AESA will bring is critical in keeping this aircraft effective against our near-peer adversaries." The new radar enhances our long-range standoff capability and prepares the aircraft for maximum lethality."