B-52

The B05200 - B-52 Modification Program is a comprehensive Air Force initiative focused on sustaining and modernizing the B-52H strategic bomber fleet, which is planned to remain in service through 2050. The program's overarching goal is to ensure the B-52H remains capable of delivering a wide variety of nuclear and conventional munitions, while also supporting homeland defense, emergency response, and military support to civil authorities.

The line item funds a series of targeted modifications addressing capability improvements, reliability, maintainability, and compliance with federal mandates, including efforts to mitigate Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS).

Bomber Tactical Data Link (TDL) Mod 6889: This modification integrates a low-latency, jam-resistant Link 16 terminal into the B-52H, providing enhanced situational awareness and command/control for in-theater operations. The program involves installing Multi-Functional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio System (MIDS-JTRS) terminals, wiring, racks, antennas, and associated hardware/software. TDL is essential for interoperability with joint and coalition forces, and supports both Line-of-Sight and Beyond Line-of-Sight message processing. The modification includes procurement and installation of contractor kits and EMD kits, with fielding beginning in 2025. The program also addresses DMSMS issues and supports simulator upgrades for cyber resilience.

B-52 Radar Modernization Program (RMP) Mod 6890: RMP is a new initiative to replace the aging APQ-166 radar with the AN/APQ-188 system, enhancing reliability and mission capability. The modernization covers the radar antenna array, LRUs, control panel, and supporting hardware, leveraging previously developed radar technology for cost efficiency. This upgrade is critical for navigation, weather avoidance, and weapon employment. The program includes procurement of aircraft kits and EMD kits, as well as upgrades to training devices. Acquisition strategies focus on economic order quantity discounts to minimize cost escalation. Developmental flight testing is scheduled for 2026, with production beginning after Milestone C approval.

B-52 Crypto Modernization Mod 6894: This effort upgrades B-52H aircraft with NSA-mandated, MUOS-capable ARC-210 radios to maintain secure, beyond line-of-sight voice and data communications. The program integrates SATURN, MUOS, and DAMA-IW SATCOM capabilities, ensuring compliance with national security requirements. The modification involves production kits and EMD kits, with procurement starting in FY26. Funding supports engineering to resolve DMSMS issues, kit procurement, installation, and program management. The initiative is vital for maintaining secure communications and mission effectiveness in contested environments.

B-52 VLF/LF Modernization Mod 6896: This program provides the B-52H fleet with secure, survivable, nuclear-hardened very low frequency/low frequency (VLF/LF) communications for strategic command and control. The upgrade addresses supportability concerns with the legacy VLF receiver and ensures media diversity for nuclear operations. The acquisition strategy leverages existing terminal technology for timely integration, with installation conducted via contractor field teams and depot maintenance. The program funds kit procurement, installation, training system upgrades, and rapid technology insertion to meet emerging requirements and mandates.

B-52 Commercial Engine Replacement Program (CERP) Mod 6897: CERP replaces the legacy TF33-PW-103 engines with new Rolls-Royce F130 engines, improving reliability, maintainability, and fuel efficiency. The program also upgrades engine struts, nacelles, electrical power systems, and cockpit displays. The initiative supports B-52H aircraft, which will be redesignated as B-52J upon modification. CERP addresses DMSMS challenges and includes procurement of engines for installation, EMD test jets, and spares. The program also funds upgrades to training devices and support equipment, ensuring readiness and compliance with security and certification requirements.

In addition to these major modifications, the B05200 line item supports other reliability and capability improvements, such as anti-skid replacement, combat network communications technology, low-cost improvements, GPS-IU replacement, and advanced extremely high frequency (AEHF) upgrades. Each sub-program is designed to address specific operational, safety, and sustainment needs, with funding allocated for procurement, installation, support, and training. These efforts ensure the B-52 fleet remains a viable and effective component of the Air Force's strategic capabilities for decades to come.