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B-1 receives upgrade at MROTC

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  • 565th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  On Sept. 26, B-1 Lancer aircraft tail No. 122 received the first massive Integrated Battle Station upgrade performed at the Oklahoma Maintenance Repair and Overhaul Technology Center.

The IBS modification provides new avionics computers and wiring upgrades to the B-1. Radar sustainability and capability upgrades will provide a more reliable system and brings an ultra-high-resolution capability that will include automatic target recognition features. The installation of LINK-16 will allow the B-1 to operate in the integrated battlefield and more effectively support ground forces. Cockpit modifications will relieve reliability problems, increase aircrew situational awareness and provide an integrated flow of information. These modifications enhance the already capable B-1 weapon system and provide the warfighter a platform to strike emerging targets rapidly and efficiently.

"This upgraded B-1 platform enables the warfighter to execute, realign and implement a new mission to meet the ground forces needs at a reduced timeline," said Charles Alley, 565th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron director. "The installation of IBS by our mechanics with the support of the B-1 System Program Office and Boeing has ensured that the B-1 will be the premier bomber for years to come."

Following the upgrade, the aircraft entered the Post Dock phase of maintenance, which includes performing flight readiness checks, at Tinker.

"The aircraft looks great, all buttoned up and ready to get back in the air," said Col. Michael Senseney, the B-1 system program manager in the Fighters and Bombers Directorate of Air Force Life Cycle Management Center.

"Moving the aircraft from the dock to the flight line is a major milestone toward delivering much-improved, IBS-configured B-1Bs back to Air Combat Command for future mission taskings as well as continuing use in Operation Enduring Freedom," the colonel said. "Reaching this milestone is a testament to the hard work by the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex, B-1 SPO, and Boeing team executing the IBS program."