Boeing wins $2.04 billion deal to re-engine US B-52 strategic bombers

Boeing has secured a $2.04 billion contract from the U.S. Air Force to advance the engine replacement program for the B-52 Stratofortress strategic bomber. This contract focuses on post-critical design review development activities, including system integration, modification, and testing of two aircraft fitted with new Rolls-Royce F130 engines and associated subsystems. The work is expected to be completed by May 31, 2033, with initial funding of approximately $35.8 million obligated at award and further funding phased in starting 2026. The program is part of a broader modernization effort for the B-52 fleet, which includes upgrades to configuration, radars (notably the AN/APQ-188 radar derived from F/A-18 and F-15 systems), communications, and navigation. The B-52 fleet currently consists of 75 aircraft, which have been in service for over 60 years and are planned to remain operational through 2050. The bombers