B-2B

The B-2B Post Production Support line item in the Air Force's FY 2026 budget request is focused on sustaining and supporting the B-2 Spirit bomber fleet through a range of procurement and interim contractor support activities. The primary objective of this program is to ensure that the B-2 weapon system remains operationally effective and available to meet Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) requirements. This is achieved by providing maintenance, repair, and modernization for critical components and support systems.

Interim Contractor Support (ICS) is a central element of this line item, providing depot-level maintenance and repair for Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) and Shop Replaceable Units (SRUs) associated with the B-2's airframe, hydro-mechanical, and avionics systems. ICS is designed to bridge the gap until permanent organic or contractor depot repair capabilities are established. This includes on-condition and limited overhaul repairs, as well as support for new or modified components resulting from ongoing B-2 modernization programs. ICS also covers travel support and interim repairs for alternate mission equipment and components introduced through B-2 modification efforts.

Weapon System Support Center (WSSC) funding within this line item supports the procurement, replacement, upgrade, testing, integration, and shipment of B-2 Peculiar Support Equipment (PSE) and Special Test Equipment (STE). The WSSC is a unique facility responsible for the development, maintenance, integration, testing, and certification of B-2 software, encompassing flight controls, radar, weapons, navigation, communications, displays, and defensive management systems. The WSSC enables comprehensive software testing in a controlled environment before deployment to operational aircraft, ensuring system reliability and mission readiness.

B-2 Display Modernization (BDM) is another key objective, with FY 2026 marking a new start for BDM ICS procurement. This effort includes the acquisition of Interim Contractor Support for Multi-Functional Display Unit Replacements (MDU-Rs), with a Request for Proposal (RFP) scheduled for release in the second quarter of FY 2025. The contract will provide three one-year options for display repairs, supporting the transition to modernized cockpit displays and enhancing aircrew situational awareness and mission effectiveness. The BDM ICS contract award and initial fielding are planned for early FY 2026.

B-2 Adaptable Communications Suite (ACS) 4.0 is also supported through this line item, with ICS funding allocated until a final maintenance support solution is determined. This ensures continued operational capability and sustainment of advanced communications systems as upgrades are fielded and integrated into the B-2 fleet.

Other Post Production Support (PPS) activities funded under this line item include the procurement, replacement, upgrade, testing, integration, and shipment of additional PSE and STE, as well as associated support systems and software development architectures. These efforts are essential for supporting B-2 laboratories, sustainment depot maintenance, test ranges, and AFGSC operational support facilities. They address obsolescence and ensure continued support for legacy and modernized systems.