OKLAHOMA CITY, 10 Nov. 2011. The Boeing Company [NYSE:BA] won from U.S. Air Force officials a $57 million follow-on contract for additional upgrades to the B-1 bomber fleet avionics software. Boeing engineers are starting design and development work on Sustainment Block 16A (SB 16A), which includes changes to the aircraft's navigation, weapon delivery, radar, diagnostics, electrical multiplexing, communication/navigation management system software, and controls and displays. SB 16A will improve the B-1 crew's situational awareness via new color cockpit displays, data link, and sensor capabilities.
The multi-mission B-1 features advanced avionics, a low radar cross-section, variable-geometry wings, and afterburning engines combine to provide long range, maneuverability, high speed, and survivability.
"The B-1 continues to be used daily in combat operations," explains Rick Greenwell, B-1 program director for Boeing. "Keeping the platform relevant and ready is more important now than ever. These annual software block upgrades enhance the sustainability of the B-1s and provide needed capabilities that aid this nation's defenders."
