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, and 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 man-hours 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 (CVR) 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 updates cryptographic equipment for B-2 AIT/ARC-234, AN/ARC-211 and MIDS/LVT communication systems. The Adaptive Communication Suite (ACS) explores incremental improvements to the B-2 ACS UHF communication system. The B-2 Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) Satellite Communications (SATCOM) system provides secure, strategic, two-way, survivable Anti-Access/Area Denial communications capability for conventional and nuclear missions. The 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 re-host 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. The Low Observable Signature and Supportability Modifications (LOSSM) program supports the B-2 ability to penetrate anti-access combat environments, performing missions directed by the National Command Authority while ensuring aircrew survivability. The LOSSM program reduces low observable (LO) maintenance, and stabilizes and improves the combat-ready LO signature for the B-2 fleet. This program encompasses multiple improvement projects including, but not limited to, improved LO materials (electrically conductive materials, adhesives, electrically resistive materials, radar absorbing material, fastener fills, coatings, welds, material removal tools, and improved processes), LO structures (radar radomes, antennas, hot trailing edges and tiles, intermediate section doors, tailpipes, windows, lib bay panels, leading edge, permanent fasteners, exhaust pockets, gust load alleviation system, inlets, radar absorbing structures, overall signature stability, and Alternate High Frequency Material expansion), and radio frequency (RF) diagnostic tools, evaluation systems, and other tools (Tier One Material Inspection System, Signature Diagnostic System, next generation Tier II and Tier III systems, Test Article 0998 optimization, conductivity probes, tailpipe inspection tools, LO-related special test equipment, data archival, and communications tools). The B-2 Crash Survivable Memory Unit (CSMU) provides a more capable recorder for flight data recovery following a mishap. The initiative includes replacement of the current CSMU and reprogramming firmware of the Flight Data Recorder Processor (FDRP) which provides data streams to the recorder. The current CSMU/FDRP does not meet the minimum requirements specified in the Aircraft Information Program (AIP) reference documents (AFI 63-133 and AFH 63-1402). The B-2 Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) Mode 5/S modification provides improved combat identification security with better discrimination between closely spaced platforms, while reducing interference with civil air traffic control transponders enabling the B-2 fleet to accomplish its anti-access and global strike mission. Mode S provides improved accuracy, altitude resolution and reduced interference from closely spaced aircraft through interrogation of assigned transponder addresses. 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. Upgrades may include Diminishing Manufacturing Sources efforts to include removal of end-of-life software/hardware within simulator systems and move to a modular, common open system architecture that is sustainable and cyber-resilient. Additional Training System Upgrades may also include efforts to implement requirements and standards defined under the Simulator Common Architecture Requirements and Standards (SCARS) initiative. Funds may be used to resolve emerging safety of flight and diminishing manufacturing sources issues, accommodate technology insertion and fulfill FAA or other mandates necessary to ensure continued aircrew safety and mission effectiveness.

Document Details

• Document Type: Project
• Publication Date: Oct 01, 2018
• Source ID: 675345_0101127F_7_3600_PB_2018

Tags

Readers

• Civilian Systems Systems Program Capability Development and Upgrade Support Activity Expense and Pay Management.
• Tactical Satellite Communications Systems Engineering.

Technology Areas

• Cyber
• Space