Boeing, on December 12, announced completion of all flight testing needed for the B-52 combat network communications technology (CONECT) programme to receive low rate initial production (LRIP) authorisation from the US Air Force. The flight test programme was conducted at Edwards Air Force Base, California, by Boeing and the Air Force.

“Completion of the LRIP flight test phase means CONECT is ready to be reviewed by our customer for initial production authorisation,” said Scot Oathout, B-52 Program Director. “CONECT increases B-52 operational effectiveness by providing improved mission flexibility, increased situational awareness and new network-centric capabilities. In addition, CONECT paves the way for easier integration of future upgrades.”

Milestone C authorisation for low-rate initial production is expected in mid-2012.

The CONECT modification provides the ability to change a mission, as well as change the target of a weapon, while the B-52 is in flight. The system provides increased situational awareness for B-52 crews by adding several communication data links and full-colour LCD displays with real-time intelligence feeds overlaid on moving maps. CONECT also enables future B-52 improvements with its onboard, high-speed network.