Air Force audit says B-52 modernization undercut by failure to track spare parts needs

[rangerrebew]

Air Force audit says B-52 modernization undercut by failure to track spare parts needs
By GARY WARNER
STARS AND STRIPES • January 1, 2024
 


The Air Force risks undermining its $48.6 billion B-52 Stratofortress modernization plan by failing to track what spare parts are available for the aged bomber and where they continue to be manufactured.

“Despite its age, the B-52 remains a cornerstone in the Air Force’s arsenal,” Air Force Inspector General Robert P. Storch wrote in an audit released Nov. 28. “The supply chain challenges identified in this audit could impact the Air Force’s ability to keep the aircraft flying.”

The Air Force operates 76 B-52H bombers, the last built in 1962. They are the last of 744 B-52s built by Boeing for the Air Force, the first to enter service with the Air Force in 1955.

A $48.6 billion Pentagon plan calls for the B-52 to receive upgrades to extend its service life until 2060. The bombers would get new Rolls Royce F130 engines, upgraded avionics, radar, and an enlarged and modernized weapons bay. After the transition, the bombers would change their designation to signify a new variant, B-52J.

https://www.stripes.com/branches/air_force/2024-01-01/air-force-audit-b52-modernization-failure-track-spare-parts-12505723.html

[rangerrebew]

V-22s are grounded, F-35s have parts problems, B-52s have parts problems, there is a pilot shortage, and a shortage of munitions.  The Air Force had better get their global warming problems under control.

[Smokin Joe]

V-22s are grounded, F-35s have parts problems, B-52s have parts problems, there is a pilot shortage, and a shortage of munitions.  The Air Force had better get their global warming problems under control.

Maybe they are on the back burner, too.

[rangerrebew]

Maybe they are on the back burner, too.

Not a chance with Brandon as CIC.