L3Harris Advances B-52 Electronic Warfare Capabilities

Summary:

L3Harris Enhances B-52 Stratofortress Electronic Warfare Capabilities
L3Harris has successfully tested significant upgrades to the electronic warfare (EW) system of the B-52 Stratofortress, an integral part of the US Air Force’s fleet. During a 5.3-hour test flight over Texas, the enhanced AN/ALQ-172 EW self-protection system was validated, featuring five newly improved Line Replaceable Units (LRUs). These upgrades are part of a $947 million, 10-year modernization contract awarded in 2021, aiming to keep the B-52 relevant against sophisticated electronic threats.
Jimmy Mercado, L3Harris Programme Director, emphasized the growing complexity of the electronic threat landscape and the necessity of these enhancements to ensure the B-52 remains mission-ready into the 2050s. The US has invested $5 billion in electronic warfare technology in 2024 alone to bolster its military capabilities against global competitors like Russia and China.
The modernization project, known as MARS, has redesigned seven out of nine LRUs, with the final two nearing completion. These upgrades are expected to enhance the USAF’s Global Strike Mission and reduce the cost and complexity of future updates. However, the B-52 fleet still faces challenges, including material shortages and spare parts management issues, as highlighted by recent audits and a Department of Defense report.