Boeing Delivers First B-52 Test Aircraft Equipped with New AESA Radar

A new radar marks a major step in the B-52 upgrade roadmap
The U.S. Air Force has received the first B-52 aircraft upgraded under the Radar Modernization Program (RMP), now undergoing flight testing with the 412th Test Wing at Edwards Air Force Base. The aircraft is equipped with the APQ-188 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, a system derived from fighter-class sensors to enhance targeting speed, situational awareness and survivability in contested airspace.

Initial integration work and functional checks were completed at Boeing’s San Antonio facility before transfer to Edwards AFB. Data collected during the current test campaign will guide subsequent development phases and the planned retrofit of the 76 operational B-52s.

What the new radar changes
The upgrade replaces the bomber’s legacy mechanically scanned radar with a modern AESA architecture capable of delivering more precise tracking, higher reliability and improved performance in low-visibility or high-threat environments. These improvements support the broader B-52 modernization strategy designed to keep the platform operational into the 2050s.




To integrate the new sensor suite, the RMP includes enhanced mission computers—two Display and System Sensor Processors—responsible for managing radar functions and distributing data to other aircraft systems. The cockpit receives two 8×20-inch high-definition touchscreens at the Navigator and Radar Navigator stations for radar imagery, system control and legacy interface displays. Fighter-style hand controllers are also added for more responsive radar operation.

Thermal and power improvements for next-generation systems
The upgrade introduces a revised cooling architecture featuring liquid cooling for the radar and bleed-air heating to ensure stable operation in extremely cold environments. These thermal improvements support the increased processing load required by AESA systems and ensure reliability across the aircraft’s global mission set.

Long-term modernization path
The B-52 RMP is one component of a broader suite of upgrades, including new engines, avionics, communication systems and structural modifications, all aimed at extending the bomber’s service life and improving mission flexibility. The aircraft delivered for RMP testing will serve as the baseline for validating system performance before fleet-wide installation begins.

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