The Lockheed Martin-built Sniper advanced targeting pod has achieved operational flight status on the B-52 bomber, meaning it is cleared for combat use on the venerable platform, according to Air Force and company officials. “Achieving operational flight status of the Sniper ATP on the B-52 delivers the pod’s flexibility and advanced capabilities to additional warfighters,” said Ken Fuhr, Lockheed Martin’s director of fixed-wing programs, in a company release. “Sniper integration will provide aircrews with critical long-range, positive target identification and video data link capability, along with an updated software suite that streamlines the targeting process and improves crew safety,” he said. Airmen at Barksdale AFB, La., and Minot AFB, N.D., received training on using and maintaining Sniper between Feb. 11-22 and April 29-May 10, respectively, Air Force spokesman Charles Gulick told the Daily Report. Sniper is also integrated on the A-10, B-1, F-15, F-16, and F/A-18. (See also Barksdale’s B-52s Get Sniper Pod.)
The six-week government shutdown did not affect the hours flown by Air Force pilots, a service spokesperson told Air & Space Forces Magazine—avoiding what could have been a major blow at a time when flying hours are already lower than they have been in decades.
