Air Force moves key B-52 engine and radar upgrades forward

The Air Force has advanced critical upgrades for the B-52 Stratofortress. The Commercial Engine Replacement Program has officially transitioned into engineering and manufacturing development to replace 1960s powerplants. Simultaneously, the Radar Modernization Program received approval for low-rate initial production, aiming to replace the existing 1980s analog radar suite. These milestones ensure the Cold War-era bombers receive modern engines and updated radar systems to maintain operational capabilities through significant technological modernization of the aircraft fleet.