B-1B Squadrons

The B-1B Squadrons program, under Program Element PE 0101126F, is an Air Force initiative focused on the research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of modernization efforts for the B-1B Lancer bomber fleet. The goal is to address aircraft obsolescence, enhance operational capabilities, and ensure continued mission effectiveness of the B-1B as a key component of the U.S. long-range conventional bomber force. The program is structured to resolve issues related to Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS), while introducing significant hardware and software upgrades to the weapon system.

Radio-Crypto Modernization is a major line item within this program, driven by directives from the Joint Requirements Oversight Council Memorandum (JROCM), DoD CIO, and other communications mandates. Its primary objective is to upgrade the B-1B's secure communications by replacing legacy ARC-210 radios with next-generation ARC-210 (Gen 6) units and integrating Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellite communication capabilities. This effort ensures secure line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight communications, supporting anti-jam operations and compliance with DoD requirements. The modernization includes hardware installation, software development, and ground/flight testing, with production and retrofit activities scheduled following successful completion of design and testing milestones.

External Heavy-Stores Pylon is a FY26 new start project that builds on previous hypersonic integration efforts. Its goal is to increase the B-1B's carriage capacity for standoff munitions, thereby expanding the volume of fires deliverable from standoff ranges. This capability is critical for maintaining bomber fleet effectiveness during the transition to the B-21 platform. The program involves computational fluid dynamics and wind tunnel testing, hardware design for aircraft modifications, and software updates to support new pylon stations and weapon types. The integration of Load Adaptable Modular (LAM) pylons is central to this effort, enabling rapid adaptation for future weapon systems.

Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) C-3 Integration is another FY26 new start, targeting the air-launch capability gap for advanced anti-surface warfare. The LRASM AGM-158C-3 variant will be integrated into the B-1B fleet as a forward fit Engineering Change Proposal, enhancing long-range strike options against high-threat maritime targets. The program leverages hardware commonality with the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile-Extended Range (JASSM-ER) and benefits from joint procurement with the U.S. Navy. Initial integration activities include interface verification, functional requirement allocation to weapons software, and mission planning updates. First missile deliveries are expected in late calendar year 2027.

B-1B Hybrid SATCOM is designed to provide resilient satellite communications in contested environments, specifically addressing urgent requirements from INDOPACOM for secure data exchange. The program aims to restore long-range integration capability for the B-1B, ensuring connectivity with Air Operations Centers and Combatant Commanders. Planned activities include integration of pre-production hardware from the Air Force Research Lab, development of operational concepts, user interface testing, and hardware/software design for production systems.

B-1B Test Jet Maintenance (MX) supports the developmental testing and sustainment of the B-1B weapon system. Maintenance activities for test aircraft at Edwards AFB and Tinker AFB are included, along with analysis, documentation, and program management. The project also supports initiatives to enhance operational capabilities, safety, supportability, maintainability, reliability, and digital engineering. Scheduled maintenance addresses safety of flight, DMSMS issues, and regulatory mandates, ensuring continued aircrew safety and mission effectiveness.

The program also funds gap and integration analysis, engineering studies, and quick-reaction capability prototypes to accelerate technology transition and future acquisition planning. Civilian pay expenses required for program management and execution are included. Acquisition strategies vary by line item, with sole source and competitive contracts utilized as appropriate. The B-1B Squadrons program is designed to ensure the continued relevance and effectiveness of the B-1B fleet through targeted modernization, integration of advanced weapon systems, and robust support for testing and sustainment activities.