Boeing delivered the first B-1 bomber upgraded with the Integrated Battle Station to the Air Force on Jan. 21. The modification “essentially turns the B-1 into a new aircraft with the addition of the full color displays, moving maps, and new diagnostics systems,” according to a Jan. 22 company release. The upgrade—the “most extensive” in “B-1 history”—improves situational awareness for Lancer crews while providing “faster and more secure communication capabilities,” states the release. The aircraft was delivered to Dyess AFB, Tex.
President Donald Trump’s nominee for Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff touted his highly unusual background for the job as an asset and reaffirmed his commitment to stay apolitical during a confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee on April 1.