Current upgrades being rolled into the 21-strong B-2A fleet include the alternative high-frequency material, a rubberised panel and gap sealer that improves maintenance and mission readiness as well as stealth; Link 16 communications and a new Raytheon active array radar antenna. Others include a smart bomb rack and more advanced processors that will allow mixed bomb loads to be dropped, as well as EHF satellite communicatioins to replace the existing UHF/AF satcom.
Meanwhile, Northrop is redesigning the aft-deck engine exhaust area of the B-2A to counter the damaging effects of the high-temperature and intense acoustic environment.
Source: Flight International
