B-52 Modernization Program Abandons New Radome Due to Cost Growth
The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress is a stalwart of American airpower since its induction in the mid-20th century. To address its age and maintain its capabilities, the US Air Force (USAF) initiated a major modernization program.
This program involves upgrading each remaining Stratofortress with new engines and a new radar system, specifically the AN/APQ-188, which enhances targeting capabilities.
At issue is the newly designed radome, the structure protecting the radar. The USAF initially planned to replace the B-52's existing radome with a wideband design but ultimately decided to retain the legacy structure due to both cost and integration challenges.
The decision stems from the revised minimum-viable configuration of the Radar Modernization Program (RMP), where five original performance requirements were removed. This included the design of a new wideband radome, which would have accommodated the AN/APQ-188's capabilities, including its wider field of view and expanded frequency bandwidth.