Boeing has begun flight testing for the US Air Force’s B-1 Lancer bomber, following an upgrade using new digital avionics for the aft cockpit and a line-of-sight Link 16 data link.

The USAF carried out the first four-hour flight of the B-1 fully integrated data link (FIDL) on 4 June at Edwards Air Force Base in California.

The Link 16 data link was tested by sending and receiving text messages, and receiving virtual mission assignment data such as target coordinates for a weapon.

Link 16 will add line-of-sight capability to the B-1’s existing beyond line-of-sight joint range extension applications protocol (JREAP) data link.

It will also integrate the JREAP data onto new, full-colour displays with intuitive symbols and moving maps.

Boeing B-1 programme manager Mark Angelo said Link 16 would allow the B-1 to be an active participant in a network that is commonly used by fighter, reconnaissance, and command and control aircraft.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

As part of the programme, three flight tests will be carried out this month and additional flight tests are scheduled until January 2011.

The USAF intends to upgrade its entire fleet of 66 B-1s with FIDL.