Boeing announced Thursday that it has received an $84 million contract from the Air Force to perform additional software upgrades of the B-1B bomber’s avionics. The new deal authorizes the company to commence work on sustainment block 16. “This major block will enhance the aircraft’s color cockpit displays, data link, radar, and navigation,” said Mahesh Reddy, Boeing’s B-1 program director. Boeing introduces new avionic software once a year on the B-1. SB 14 is in flight test at Edwards AFB, Calif., with delivery scheduled in 2011. SB 15 will be delivered in 2012.
Airmen and Guardians in the Active and Reserve component, as well as civilian employees, in “mission critical and high-risk populations” are now required to receive influenza vaccinations annually to “preserve force readiness,” according to a recent Department of the Air Force memo.