ALCM Upgrades

Abstract

The AGM-86B, Air Launched Cruise Missile (ALCM), is a subsonic, air-to-surface strategic nuclear missile, operational since 1982. Armed with a W-80 warhead, it is designed to evade air and ground-based defenses in order to strike targets at any location within any enemy’s territory. The ALCM is designed for B-52H internal and external carriage. The Aging and Surveillance (A&S) program continuously assesses critical components and subsystems. The program identifies aging trends prior to failures in fielded components that would result in fleet-wide reliability and supportability problems. In 2016, A&S will be accomplished via 3400 Central Asset Management (CAM). The ALCM Test Plan Development and Evaluation program develops test procedures for testing nuclear systems, and implements those procedures as directed by the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff. As A&S shifts to CAM, the program will increase emphasis on the program's two phases of Test Plan Development, Evaluation and implementation. Phase 1 focuses on Electromagnetic (EM) development and testing for High Altitude Electromagnetic Pulse (HEMP), Hazards of Electromagnetic Radiation to Ordnance (HERO), and High Power Microwave (HPM) testing. Phase 2 focuses on the development of radiation testing and radiation testing. RDT&E funds are used to develop new test and evaluation procedures, software, and equipment, to ensure ALCM sustainability supports Air Force strategic nuclear deterrence and Global Strike mission requirements through 2030. BA7- This program is in Budget Activity 7, Operational System Development, because this budget activity includes development efforts to upgrade systems that have been fielded or have received approval for full rate production and anticipate production funding in the current or subsequent fiscal year.

Document Details

• Document Type: Project
• Publication Date: Oct 01, 2017
• Source ID: 674797_0101122F_7_3600_PB_2017

Tags

Fields of Study

• Physics

Readers

• Civilian Systems Systems Program Capability Development and Upgrade Support Activity Expense and Pay Management.
• Defense Acquisition Program Management
• Missile Defense Systems.

Technology Areas

• Directed Energy