Air Force, Boeing agree to contract for B-1 upgrade

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DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The Air Force and the Boeing Company agreed on a $45 million contract to upgrade avionics software on the B-1 long-range heavy bomber Feb. 3. The award is Sustainment Block 15 of an upgrade program launched in 2003.

The annual sustainment software blocks respond to changes in strategy and tactics and enable maximum operational flexibility. Boeing engineers in Long Beach, Calif., and Oklahoma City produce the software for the United States' fleet of 66 B-1s. 

"Block 15 is one of a continuing program of sustainment block upgrades to the B-1. It will provide higher targeting accuracy and increase aircrew efficiency to strike those targets," said Col. Charles E. Catoe, 7th Operations Group commander. "Every step forward, whether its improvements to the aircraft, as this will be, or aircrew procedures increases the B-1's capabilities and the Air Force's contribution to the Joint Team fighting the Global War on Terror."

"This contract ensures that B-1 crews are equipped with the latest software improvements, allowing them to exploit the awesome potential of the bomber in its ever-expanding roles, in combination with precision-guided munitions," said Boeing B-1 Program Director Mike Harris.

Other B-1 upgrades completed over the past year include an integration of a targeting pod on the aircraft. 

The multimission B-1 has been carrying the largest strike payload in the Air Force inventory since its combat debut in 1999. Its low radar cross-section, variable-geometry wings, advanced avionics, and afterburning engines combine to provide long range, maneuverability, high speed and survivability.

B-1 aircraft delivered more tonnage of ordnance with fewer sorties than any other aircraft while supporting Operations Allied Force, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. It continues to perform with distinction in Afghanistan and Iraq today, providing real-time, precise, persistent, flexible support to troops on the ground. 

(Some information provided by Boeing)