Boeing Selects Raytheon as Radar Supplier for B-52 Radar Modernization Effort

El Segundo, California-based Raytheon announced on July 11 that The Boeing Company chose it to be the radar supplier for the B-52 bomber radar modernization program. 

Under the contract, Raytheon will design, develop, produce and sustain active electronically scanned array radar systems for the entire U.S. Air Force B-52 fleet, Raytheon stated. Raytheon's B-52 radar is based on active electronically scanned array (AESA) systems developed from the APG-79/APG-82 radar system. The new systems will improve the navigation reliability of nuclear and conventional missions. It also offers improved mapping and detection ranges, and an increase in the number of targets that can simultaneously be engaged.

Low rate initial production of the advanced radar is scheduled to begin in 2024; the upgrades will make the aircraft mission ready at least through 2050, the company said.

"When it comes to years spent flying in support of our nation's defense," said Eric Ditmars, vice president of Raytheon Secure Sensor Solutions. "Our new AESA radars give aircrews the eyes they need to achieve their mission for the duration of the B-52's service life."