[Avionics Today 02-05-2015] The U.S. Air Force has issued a full rate production contract to Boeing to deliver 10 Combat Network Communications Technology (CONECT) upgrade packages for its fleet of B-52 bomber aircraft. Among the avionics upgrades included in the package are full-color LCD displays with real-time intelligence feeds overlaid on moving maps and several communication data links that connect via satellite to platforms and troops in the field.
A B-52 Stratofortress is prepared for take off on the runway at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii. Photo: Commons.Wikimedia.Org.
“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.
Combined with previous contracts, Boeing will be providing the upgrade packages for a total of 30 B-52s.