Budget Account
3020F - Missile Procurement, Air Force
Description
The Replace Equipment & War Consumables initiative within the Air Force is dedicated to upgrading and replacing outdated systems to maintain operational readiness and enhance capabilities. A key component of this effort is the Common Munitions BIT Reprogramming Equipment (CMBRE) Service Life Extension Program (SLEP). This program addresses obsolescence and cybersecurity concerns by replacing legacy systems that rely on outdated technology, such as floppy drives and DOS/Win XP operating systems. The CMBRE SLEP supports over 20 smart munitions and weapon systems currently in use, as well as advanced systems under development.
Another significant aspect of this initiative is the Cruise Missile Automatic Test System (CM-ATS), a nuclear-certified tester for the AGM-86 Cruise Missile fleet. The CM-ATS also tests the B-2 Rotary Launcher Assembly (RLA) and associated Carrier Aircraft Equipment (CAE). This system ensures that these critical components function correctly, thereby supporting the strategic capabilities of the Air Force. Efforts are directed towards procuring and recapitalizing the ATS Product Group, which includes Armament and Stores ATS, Software Loader/Verifier, and Built-in-Test ATS.
The objectives include breaking vendor lock to allow government ownership of full data rights and technical data packages. This approach not only addresses current obsolescence issues but also enhances cybersecurity measures. By upgrading the CMBRE and CM-ATS systems, the program ensures persistent logistics support and enables agile combat employment. These upgrades are essential for verifying weapons' built-in test status, reprogramming operational flight data, and managing mission planning and GPS data.
The Replace Equipment & War Consumables initiative seeks to modernize essential testing equipment to sustain current capabilities while preparing for future technological advancements. By focusing on both procurement and recapitalization efforts, it aims to maintain a high level of readiness for Air Force operations. These efforts ensure that critical munitions systems remain effective and secure in an evolving threat environment.