More avionics upgrades for B-1s

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OKLAHOMA CITY, Nov. 1 (UPI) -- The U.S. Air Force's B-1 Lancer bombers will receive additional avionics upgrades from Boeing under a $57 million follow-on contract, the company announced.

The contract continues a software-sustainment program that has updated and improved the B-1's sustainability and operational capabilities since the aircraft entered service in 1989.

Usually, one avionics software block is in development while another is in test and a third is fielded on the fleet of 66 B-1s. This new agreement authorizes Boeing to start work on Sustainment Block 16A.

SB 16A includes changes to the aircraft's navigation, weapon delivery, radar, diagnostics, electrical multiplexing, communication/navigation management system software and controls and displays.

"The B-1 continues to be used daily in combat operations," said Rick Greenwell, B-1 program director for Boeing. "Keeping the platform relevant and ready is more important now than ever.

"These annual software block upgrades enhance the sustainability of the B-1s and provide needed capabilities that aid this nation's defenders."