BLUF
B52 H models (the last new airframes) are being upgraded with Rolls-Royce F130 turbofans, digital engine control systems, increased range, enhanced field performance, improved fuel economy and reduced maintenance/ logistics costs—as a result, they should remain in service until at least 2050.Summary
Joseph Trevithick writing in the Drive, makes the following points:
- It may be re-classified as B-52J or B-52K.
- The new AN/APG-79 radar (similar to the F/A 18 E/F/G) could support electronic warfare, communications, target acquisition and identification.
- May carry the AGM-183A Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon hypersonic missile.
- A considerable number of improvements were made to the cockpit layout.
References
Recent Runway Posts related to this topic:
- B-52s flying bomber task force missions over Europe |The Runway (airforce.gov.au)
- Warning To China: Why The U.S. Air Force Sent 4 B-2 Bombers To Australia | The Runway (airforce.gov.au)
References from the Web:
- AUG 2022 USAF B-52 Bomber Braces for ‘Largest Modification in History’-the Defense Post
- OCT 2022 Record Breaking Warplane! US Is ‘Upgrading’ Its Nuclear Bombers To Keep Them Flying For Next 30 Years-the EurAsian Times
Source Information:
- Article Source: The War Zone | The Drive
- Media Check: The Drive Team- (No Media Bias Fact Check)
- RAAF RUNWAY: RATIONALE, GUIDELINES, LEARNING OUTCOMES, ETC |
