B-1B

The B-1B program, as reflected in Line Item B01B00 of the FY 2026 Air Force budget, is focused on the continued modification and modernization of the B-1B Lancer bomber fleet. The B-1B is a long-range, supersonic, swing-wing bomber capable of delivering the largest payload of both guided and unguided weapons in the U.S. Air Force inventory. The overarching goal of this budget line is to address obsolescence issues, extend service life, and enhance operational capabilities to ensure the B-1B remains a viable component of the strategic bomber force through at least 2037.

One of the most significant objectives within this line item is the External Pylons (Capability Improvement) modification. This project seeks to restore and enhance the B-1B's ability to carry standoff munitions externally, utilizing legacy hardpoints that were part of the original design but later deactivated. The budget supports the procurement and installation of Load Adjustable Modular (LAM) pylons. This modification is justified by the need to increase the volume of standoff fires available to combatant commanders, thereby mitigating operational risk during the transition to the B-21 bomber and addressing current combat capability gaps.

Another key goal is the implementation of Fully Integrated Data Links, which aims to provide the B-1B with advanced, secure communications and data-sharing capabilities. This capability improvement is critical for maintaining interoperability with joint and coalition forces, ensuring the B-1B can operate effectively in modern, network-centric combat environments. The integration of these data links also supports the aircraft's ability to receive real-time mission updates and targeting information, which is essential for dynamic operations.

The CITS Upgrade is a service life extension effort designed to address diminishing manufacturing sources and obsolescence in the Central Integrated Test System. By upgrading this system, the Air Force ensures continued diagnostic and maintenance support for the B-1B, thereby reducing sustainment risks and supporting aircraft availability. This upgrade is necessary to maintain the reliability of onboard systems and to facilitate future modernization efforts.

Additional objectives include B-1 Training Support, which provides capability improvements to training systems and simulators, and Vertical Situation Displays, a service life extension modification that replaces obsolete cockpit displays with modern equivalents. These efforts are intended to ensure that aircrew training remains current with aircraft capabilities and that pilots have access to reliable, up-to-date avionics, thereby enhancing mission effectiveness and safety.

Other important modifications funded under this line item are MIDS-JTRS, which introduces the Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio System for improved tactical communications, and Radio Crypto Compliance, which upgrades radios to meet current cryptographic standards. The IFF Mode 5/S ADS-B modification ensures compliance with modern identification and air traffic management requirements, while Low Cost Modifications provide flexibility to address emerging capability gaps or minor obsolescence issues as they arise.

The goals and objectives of the B-1B line item are to sustain and modernize the fleet through targeted hardware and software upgrades, ensuring continued operational relevance, survivability, and mission effectiveness. These efforts are managed by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, with The Boeing Company serving as the primary contractor for major modifications. The program is structured to address both near-term operational needs and long-term sustainment challenges, supporting the strategic objectives of the U.S. Air Force's bomber enterprise.