B-2 Modernization
Abstract
The B-2 is currently undergoing modernization of avionics/communications systems, engines, armament systems, low observable components, core training system components, aircraft supportability improvements, support equipment development. The Air Force will also study multiple structural, avionics, and engine modifications that could improve the performance of the aircraft and engines and reduce maintenance manhours and the logistics footprint of the fleet. Focus of the studies will be on non-mission capable (maintenance) drivers, safety issues, and obsolescence issues through modernization of key components in the airframe, avionics, and engines resulting in improved aircraft availability of a high demand/low density fleet. Modern communications are key enablers for the B-2 in the anti-access/area denial battlespace, and directly enhance lethality and force multiplication. The Common Very Low Frequency (VLF) Receiver effort develops and integrates a receive-only, low bandwidth receiver and antenna subsystem to provide a secure, survivable strategic nuclear communication capability for the B-2. The receiver will be adaptable for use by other Department of Defense platforms. B-2 Cryptographic Modernization, an FY 2017 new start, updates cryptographic equipment for B-2 AIT/ARC-234, AN/ARC-211 and MIDS/LVT communication systems. The Adaptive Communication Suite (ACS) is an FY 2017 new start to explore incremental improvements to the B-2 ACS UHF communication system. The B-2 AEHF effort was established in Project 675345 B-2 Modernization; the B-2 AEHF effort continues in FY 2017 and subsequent years under Project 676022 AEHF Strategic Comm. B-2 Armament upgrades integrate new and/or advanced weapons on the B-2 to attack a wider array of target sets, to include hardened, deeply buried targets, as well as destroy more targets per sortie. The Flexible Strike Phase 1 program will rehost the current B-2 stores management software onto a new integrated processor. B-2 will also integrate the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile Extended Range (JASSM-ER) weapon to further enhance the B-2's ability to attack and destroy high value target sets. Low Observable Signature and Supportability Modifications (LOSSM) directly address B-2 aircraft availability. Given the extremely small fleet size (20 aircraft), mission accomplishment is particularly sensitive to the availability of this high-demand strategic asset. LOSSM projects increase aircraft availability, decrease low observable (LO) maintenance, and maintain and improve the combat-ready LO signature for the B-2 fleet ensuring survivable combat operations. LOSSM projects improve materials, structures, and diagnostic tools necessary to evaluate LO materials and systems in the B-2 fleet. LOSSM structure improvement projects include, but are not limited to, advanced high frequency materials placement, windshield bounce patch and tape improvements, composite plies, advanced signature reduction, and radar radome and antennae improvements. Material improvements include, but are not limited to, tailpipe and inlet coatings, pre- cured gap fillers, and other advanced LO materials development. Diagnostic tool efforts include, but are not limited to, improved radar frequency diagnostics, Signature Diagnostic System database upgrades, Tier One Material Inspection System improvements, Portable Laser Removal Tool development, Next Generation Mapper, SCI-2K Radar, Mobile Diagnostics Laboratory, Ground Air Radar System development, and other low observable special test equipment and information systems upgrades. The B-2 Training System upgrades include updates to training device hardware and components, simulation software, courseware and academic materials, instructional system design architectures, engineering drawings, and system documentation that is not driven by a funded aircraft modification.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2017
- Source ID
- 675345_0101127F_7_3600_PB_2017
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