B-2 Modernization

Abstract

The B-2 is currently undergoing modernization of avionics, communications systems, cockpit displays, 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, as well as advanced weapons integration and advanced communications, 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. The B-2 Display Modernization program is a modernization of the B-2 multi-purpose display units (MDUs) and includes removal of the Defensive Management System-Modernization (DMS-M) modification from the B-2 fleet test aircraft and lab environment. This is not a new start, but a continuation of 3600 scope that was part of the previous DMS-M program. FY 2021 and prior years DMS-M efforts were in PE 0605931F. B-2 Communications Upgrade (formerly known only as Adaptable Communications Suite) includes multiple modernization efforts including Adaptable Communications Suite (ACS) Increment 4.0 and Airborne Integrated Terminal Group (AITG) Replacement. ACS is a non-integrated system that provides SATCOM connectivity for Command and Control en route to the target. A critical capability is the ability to receive Airborne Mission Transfer (AMT) and Beyond Line-of-Sight situational awareness. This effort includes improvements to the suite of B-2 ACS Ultra High Frequency (UHF) communications system in order to become part of the baseline configuration, as well as modernization upgrades to conform to mandates. AITG provides Line-of-Sight UHF and Very High Frequency (VHF) voice communications including anti-jam, encrypted, and unencrypted. AITG Replacement will include the replacement of the AN/ARC-234 radio which will reach end-of-life effective 01 Oct 2026. AITG replacement will also implement the SATURN Waveform for anti-jam voice communications; this is a transition from the HAVE QUICK Waveform which will be retired effective 01 Oct 2024. 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 key support equipment (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). LOSSM yields a high Return On Investment (ROI) and provides signature confidence for war time readiness posturing. The B-2 Crash Survivable Memory Unit (CSMU) provides a more capable Flight Data Recorder (FDR) with increased capacity for storing Flight Information Data (FID) for recovery and use in the event of a mishap. The B-2 Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) Mode 5/S modification program replaces the current IFF transponder with a new Mode 5 and Mode S capable transponder ensuring compliance with DoD Combat Identification mandates and global Communications, Navigation, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) requirements. Mode 5 is the DoD standard for secure combat identification and provides improved 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 5 replaced the obsolete Mode 4 combat identification. Mode S is a civil air traffic control secondary surveillance radar process that allows selective interrogation of aircraft according to the unique 24-bit address. Mode S provides improved accuracy and altitude resolution and reduced interference from closely spaced aircraft through selective interrogation of assigned transponder addresses. The B-2 Training System upgrades include, but are not limited to, 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. B-2 funding may be used to resolve emerging safety of flight and diminishing manufacturing sources issues, and fulfill FAA or other mandates necessary to ensure continued aircrew safety and mission effectiveness. Funding may also support innovation activities including, but not limited to, studies, analyses, requirements definition, and quick-reaction capability prototypes/demonstrations to accelerate planning for technology transition, technology insertion, and future acquisition programs. This program element may include necessary civilian pay expenses required to manage, execute, and deliver B-2 weapon system capability. The use of such program funds would be in addition to the civilian pay expenses budgeted in program element 0605831F.In FY2021 0M was expended for civilian pay expenses in this program element, and in FY2022 0M is forecasted for civilian pay expenses in this program element. 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 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, 2023
• Source ID: 675345_0101127F_7_3600_PB_2023

Tags

Readers

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

Technology Areas

• Cyber
• Fully Networked C3
• Fully Networked C3 - Command and Control
• Space