USAF to modify 65 B-1 bombers at D-M

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Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. --  Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. - The United States Air Force, through a Boeing contractor, will modify all 65 of its operational B-1 bomber aircraft. The work will be accomplished at Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz. The modification will permit the B-1 to carry and employ the Air Force's Advanced Targeting Pods (ATP). The current program, funded through Global War on Terrorism appropriations, will integrate the Air Force's newest targeting systems, including the Lockheed Martin SNIPER pod.

This upgrade will add three critical capabilities to the B-1. First, it will allow the B-1 to downlink targeting pod video of forward areas to warfighters on the ground via ROVER. Secondly, the upgrade will enhance the aircraft's ability to locate the enemy, and distinguish hostile from friendly forces. Thirdly, the upgrade enhances the B-1's intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.

The B-1 bomber was originally built in the 1980's as an intercontinental strategic bomber, capable of employing long-range nuclear air-launched cruise missiles (LRNA). While this capability was never used by the B-1, attachment points for the specifically designed external air-launch cruise missile pylon used to carry the nuclear missiles were retained as part of the original aircraft design, making the B-1 accountable for inspection under the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START).

As part of START, the B-1 LRNA pylon attachment points were rendered unusable by permanently sealed covers. While at D-M, these attachment points will be made capable of carrying the state-of-the-art ATP. This significantly enhances the conventional capability of the B-1, which is essential to combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Even though these points will be unsealed and mechanically modified, they will still meet the START agreement of not being capable of accepting the external LRNA pylon.

"All modifications must comply with the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty - the treaty between the Unites States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on the Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms," said Scott Hines, the 355th Fighter Wing Arms Control Officer.

Tucson citizens may see the arrival and departure of B-1 aircraft on a weekly basis. Each aircraft modification requires approximately 30 days to complete, and we will have as many as five B-1s undergoing modification at any time.

To minimize the noise effects, Col. Kent Laughbaum, 355th Fighter Wing commander, has directed that the B-1's land from the southeast and takeoff toward the southeast as weather and winds permit.

Questions should be referred to either the 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs office at 228-3204.

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