B-52 Squadrons

The B-52 Squadrons program element (PE 0101113F) is a comprehensive Air Force initiative focused on the research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of upgrades and modernization efforts for the B-52 bomber fleet. The goal is to ensure the B-52 remains a viable, relevant, and survivable long-range bomber platform through 2050, capable of delivering a wide variety of nuclear and conventional munitions. The program addresses obsolescence issues, enhances operational capabilities, and supports compliance with evolving Department of Defense (DoD) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates.

Resilient Operation Capability Suite (ROCS) is a new start in FY26, aiming to connect the B-52 to the Department of the Air Force Battle Management Network (BMN). The objective is to provide resilient, reliable Beyond Line-Of-Sight (BLOS) communications and an open computing environment, enabling rapid integration of future capabilities such as M-code GPS, digital HF radios, and advanced waveforms. The program will install necessary hardware racks and components, with FY26 funds supporting acquisition strategy completion, contract awards, and test asset procurement.

ARC-260 is another new start in FY26, replacing the legacy ARC-190 high-frequency radio system, which is approaching end-of-life. The ARC-260 integration ensures continued BLOS communications in satellite-denied environments and leverages modern Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) features. The program focuses on reusing existing hardware where possible. FY26 funding is dedicated to acquisition strategy development, milestone approvals, and the initiation of engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) activities.

B-52 Mission Employment Trainer (MET) is developing a family of training systems to replace outdated legacy trainers. The MET program leverages modular, open architecture and virtualized Operational Flight Program (OFP) software to provide full-crew, proficiency-based training across a range of fidelity levels. FY26 objectives include software updates to incorporate radar modernization, continued hardware and software development, and the instrumentation of aircraft for advanced training equivalency.

B-52 AFMC Test Assets provides ongoing support for test aircraft, manpower, and facilities at the Air Force Test Center, Edwards AFB. This line item ensures developmental testing and integration of new systems, such as the Bomber Modular Data Acquisition System (BMDAS). It also covers costs related to test aircraft modifications, analysis, and centralized program management.

B-52 AEHF Integration is upgrading the B-52's satellite communications by integrating the Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) system, replacing the aging MILSTAR UHF SATCOM. This upgrade provides secure, survivable, high-bandwidth command and control communications. FY26 funding supports risk reduction studies, prototype development, and EMD planning, with a focus on integrating the Family of Advanced Beyond Line-of-Sight Terminals (FAB-T) onto the aircraft.

B-52 System Improvements funds studies, analyses, and integration experiments to facilitate future B-52 capabilities. This includes Analysis of Alternatives, capability development documentation, and airborne demonstrations of emerging technologies. The project also supports software development, system integration laboratory upgrades, and centralized support for anticipated enhancements in communications, avionics, and weapons systems.

B-52 Radar Modernization Program (RMP) replaces the obsolete APQ-166 radar with the AN/APQ-188, improving reliability, maintainability, and mission capability. The program encompasses new radar hardware, software, and training device development. FY26 activities include continued software and hardware integration, ground and flight testing, and delivery of modernized test aircraft, supporting both nuclear and conventional mission requirements.

B-52 Commercial Engine Replacement Program (CERP) is a major modernization effort to replace the TF33-PW-103 engines with new Rolls-Royce F130 engines and associated subsystems. The goal is to improve reliability, fuel efficiency, and electrical power generation, while addressing obsolescence and supportability challenges. FY26 funding transitions from design to aircraft modification, supporting critical design reviews, EMD contract execution, and test aircraft modifications.

B-52 Crypto Modernization upgrades the aircraft's secure communications systems to meet National Security Agency and DoD mandates. The program integrates ARC-210 radios capable of secure BLOS voice and data communications via modern SATCOM networks. FY26 funds complete EMD and software integration, with the program shifting towards production.

B-52 Quad Crew aims to reduce the B-52 crew size from five to four by transitioning electronic warfare controls to the navigator station and upgrading the ALQ-172 countermeasure system. While Phase II has been paused, FY26 focuses on completing Phase I EMD activities, including design, documentation, kit development, and testing.

B-52 Airspace Compliance ensures the fleet meets regulatory requirements by integrating advanced GPS systems with M-Code encryption for enhanced anti-jam and anti-spoof capabilities. FY26 marks a transition to EMD, with plans to test prototype units, award contracts, and begin integration of M-Code components onto the aircraft.