Boeing has announced that the Air Force and it have completed the first phase of flight testing for the fully integrated data link system that is being added to the B-1B bomber to increase aircrew situational awareness and targeting capability. Phase one actually concluded on Oct. 16 at Edwards AFB, Calif., with the completion of nine test sorties by the B-1 fitted with the new avionics components, which include a state-of-the-art moving map, said the company in a mid-December release. This phase included observations of how the crew acclimated to the new equipment as well as functionality assessments and temperature and vibration tests. The modified B-1 will now undergo programmed depot maintenance at Tinker AFB, Okla., and then return to Edwards for phase two testing in April. Boeing expects to receive a production contract for the FIDL kits for the B-1 fleet in November 2010.
Air Force Asking for $1.5B to Fund E-7 in 2027
May 20, 2026
The Air Force’s planned budget amendment to restore funding for the E-7A Wedgetail in fiscal 2027 will be about $1.5 billion, Air Force Sec. Troy Meink told lawmakers May 20. The Air Force also plans to keep funding the E-7 in 2028 and beyond, Meink told the House Armed Services…