B-1B To Get Radar Boost

May 18, 2006

B-1B To Get Radar Boost: The Aeronautical Systems Center at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, is working with Boeing and its subcontractor Northrop Grumman to provide the first significant radar upgrade for the B-1B bomber in more than 20 years, say ASC officials. The center awarded a $180 million contract to Boeing to upgrade the fire control radar. Officials expect the effort, which includes implementation of a more sustainable software language, to lay the foundation for future upgrades, if needed, to accommodate new technologies and new weapons. Testing will begin later this year on a surrogate aircraft and in 2010 on a B-1B.

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