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The United States Air Force's B-52 Superfortress, a long-standing symbol of military aviation, is set to undergo significant upgrades to the B-52J variant. Although initially delayed, the upgraded aircraft is expected to enter service by 2033. The B-52J will work alongside the new Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider in what is described as a high/low pairing for future missions.
A major component of the upgrade involves replacing the current engines with Rolls-Royce F130 engines. The Air Force plans to acquire 650 of these engines for its fleet of 76 B-52Hs. These new engines are anticipated to offer 30% better fuel efficiency and reduce the need for engine overhauls. On December 12, 2024, Rolls-Royce announced it had "held a successful F130 engine Critical Design Review (CDR), clearing the way for final development, test, and production efforts."
In addition to new engines, the B-52J will be equipped with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar system similar to that used on Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jets. This upgrade aims to enhance capabilities in search, ground mapping, and electronic warfare. Other improvements include updated communications and navigation equipment.
