Budget Account
3010F - Aircraft Procurement, Air Force
Budget Activity
07 - Aircraft support equipment and facilities
Description
The B-2B program within the Air Force is dedicated to providing comprehensive post-production support for the B-2 weapon system. Its primary goal is to ensure the operational readiness and sustainability of the B-2 aircraft by maintaining and repairing Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) and Shop Replaceable Units (SRUs). This includes components related to airframe structures, hydro-mechanical systems, and avionics. The program aims to bridge the gap until a permanent depot repair capability is established, either organically or through Contractor Depot Maintenance (CDM).
A significant component of the B-2B program is Interim Contractor Support (ICS), which plays a crucial role in maintaining legacy components and supporting new aircraft modifications. ICS provides essential maintenance and repair capabilities for alternate mission equipment and new or modified components resulting from ongoing B-2 aircraft modification programs. It also offers travel support for interim repairs until a permanent source of repair is achieved, ensuring that the Air Force Global Strike Command's operational requirements are consistently met.
The Weapon System Support Center (WSSC) is another vital aspect of the B-2B program, responsible for developing, maintaining, and integrating software necessary for the B-2 Spirit aircraft. The WSSC combines various functionalities such as Flight Controls, Radar, Weapons, Navigation, and Communications in a test environment to conduct comprehensive software testing before deployment. This facility supports software development and sustainment activities critical to maintaining the aircraft's operational capabilities.
Additionally, the B-2B program includes initiatives like the B-2 Display Modernization (BDM) and Adaptable Communications Suite (ACS) 4.0. These projects involve purchasing ICS until final maintenance support solutions are determined. Efforts are made to procure, replace, upgrade, integrate, and test obsolete Peculiar Support Equipment and Special Test Equipment capabilities. These actions ensure that all associated subcomponents and software development systems required for B-2 testing at various facilities remain up-to-date and effective in supporting Air Force operations.