Environmental qualification testing of the modernized radar units for the B-2A bomber has been successfully completed, lead contractor Northrop Grumman announced July 15. The laboratory tests validated the ability of the radar’s antenna, power supply, and receiver/exciter module to withstand the extremes of temperature, altitude, humidity, shock, and vibration that they would face in an operational environment aboard the stealth bomber, the company said. The tests also demonstrated the integrity of the antenna design. Raytheon builds the radar units under contract to Northrop Grumman.
The Air Force has finished modifying and testing the new VC-25B Bridge aircraft that will serve as a temporary Air Force One, the service announced May 1. All that’s left now is to finish painting the jet before it starts flying this summer.