In early December 2025, Boeing delivered the first flight-test aircraft for the B-52 Radar Modernization Program (RMP) to the United States Air Force (USAF). As announced by the company and the US Department of War, the bomber is being evaluated by the 412th Test Wing at Edwards Air Force Base, California.
The B-52 testbed has been fitted with the APQ-188 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar system, similar to equipment used on fighter aircraft. The RMP upgrades are a critical element of the B-52 Stratofortress modernisation programme, intended to keep the aircraft in active service through 2050 and beyond, while maintaining US global strike capabilities.
According to an official company statement, testing at Edwards AFB represents the next phase of the RMP evaluation process. This stage follows ground integration and initial system functional checks completed at Boeing’s San Antonio facility.
“The new radar will significantly increase B-52 mission effectiveness by improving situational awareness, speeding target prosecution and enhancing aircrew survivability in contested environments,” – said Troy Dawson, Vice President of Boeing Bombers. “This phase of the programme is dedicated to getting it right from the start so that we can execute the full radar modernisation programme.”
Boeing has already disclosed that the RMP upgrade includes two Display and Sensor System Processors serving as mission computers, integrating the radar with B-52 the systems, along with two large 8 × 20-inch, high-definition touchscreens at the navigator and radar navigator stations for radar imagery, control and legacy displays. Additionally, there are two fighter-style hand controllers for radar operation. The system also features upgraded liquid cooling installation for the radar and engine bleed-air heating for operations in very cold conditions.
Data gathered during testing will allow the RMP programme to proceed to further developmental test phases. Ultimately, the updated radar system is planned to be installed on seventy-six operational B-52 Stratofortress aircraft in the USAF inventory.
All photos and quotations © Boeing. Information from The Boeing Company press releases were used.
