Key Milestones for the B-52's Future
The new F130 engines are part of a massive upgrade for the B-52H Stratofortress bomber. After successfully passing their critical design review, these engines are now ready to enter final development, production, and more intensive testing.
Rolls-Royce has announced that the F130 engines will begin altitude testing at the Air Force’s Arnold Engineering Development Complex in Tennessee in February. This testing will evaluate engine performance under various simulated altitudes and flight conditions.
Comprehensive Upgrades Planned
The B-52 upgrades will also include enhanced radar, avionics, displays, wheels, brakes, and other modernizations, positioning the bomber to meet the demands of modern warfare.
The Stratofortress modernization is crucial as the Air Force reshapes its fleet for potential conflicts with major adversaries, planning to retire older models like the B-1 Lancer and B-2 Spirit. By the 2030s, the Air Force aims for a two-bomber fleet consisting of at least 100 B-21 Raiders and 76 upgraded B-52Js.
Keeping the B-52s Flying
The B-52Hs, operational since the early 1960s, still rely on their original TF33 engines, which are now nearing the end of their lifecycle. Maintenance crews face challenges due to dwindling spare parts, often needing to cannibalize other engines to keep these bombers functional.
The planned upgrades for the B-52 are expected to extend their operational life into the 2050s and potentially even the 2060s, making them nearly a century old.
Rolls-Royce's Commitment
Rolls-Royce expressed pride in achieving the F130 critical design review milestone on schedule. They are eager to commence production of this reliable engine for the B-52J.
Recent sea-level testing of the F130 at Rolls-Royce’s Indianapolis facility has concluded, and additional tests at NASA’s Stennis Space Center confirmed the engines' performance in their planned twin pod configuration.
The Gulfstream G650 business jet currently operates with a version of the F130 engine, but the unique underwing configuration for the B-52 necessitated specific verification to ensure operational success.
Stephen Losey is the air warfare reporter for Defense News, with previous experience covering leadership and personnel issues at Air Force Times and Military.com.
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