The backbone of the U.S nuclear deterrence, the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber fleet is all set to receive a complete overhaul of its existing radar systems. The makers of the B-2 bomber, Northrop Grumman Corporation have developed an entirely new range of radar systems specifically for the B-2 and has been given the go ahead by the U.S Air Force for a full implementation of the program.

In December last year, Northrop Grumman was awarded the $468 million contract and now the company’s Radar Modernization Program is in full swing, with the radars reaching full developmental capacity to outfit the entire existing fleet of the B-2 bombers. The B-2 stealth bombers are known to be lightning sword of the U.S armed forces and is widely believed to be the most survivable combat aircraft in the world.

According to Dave Mazur (B-2 program manager, Northrop Grumman),

“Putting this new radar on America’s flight line helps ensure that the B-2 fleet is ready day or night to protect the nation’s interests worldwide. The new radar also makes it easier for our modernization team to add additional mission capabilities to the jet in the future.”

This is the first overhaul of the bomber’s radar systems, since its inception in the 1980’s era. The  new radars will be incorporated with advanced technologies and all the breakthroughs achieved in this field will be available for the B-2 bombers to take advantage of.

The B-2 Spirit stealth bomber has a range of more than 6,000 nautical miles, without refueling and once refueled, the range extends to more than 10,000 nautical miles. The plane is can virtually fly endlessly with minimum number of refuelings and its range is limited only by the crew fatigue and essential crew supplies. The B-2 stealth bomber provides the U.S armed forces with a platform that is comprised of stealth, long range, large payload and precision weapons, thus making it an unstoppable offensive and defensive weapon.

Via Space War.