Boeing has received another full rate production contract from the U.S. Air Force for kits to upgrade combat network communications on B-52 bombers.
The contract is for 10 CONECT systems, which give the B-52 Stratofortress digital communications capabilities.
The enhancements include full-color LCD displays, with real-time intelligence feeds overlaid on moving maps; communication data links that connect by satellite to other platforms and troops in the field; and an onboard, high-speed network that enables aircrew to respond quickly to a mission change and engage new targets, the company said.
"CONECT gives the B-52 the agility and flexibility needed for the modern battlefield while also providing greater situational awareness for the aircrew," said Scot Oathout, Boeing's B-52 program director.
The new contract brings the number of B-52s receiving the upgrade to 30. Installation of the technology is performed by Air Force personnel at Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., during a B-52s regularly scheduled depot maintenance period.
Boeing did not disclose the monetary value of the contract.
