B-52 Modernization Program Enters New Phase with AESA Radar Installation
A US Air Force B-52 Stratofortress has completed its ferry flight following the installation of a new active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar at Boeing’s San Antonio facility. The aircraft flew to Edwards Air Force Base, California, on December 8, 2025, Breaking Defense reports. According to AeroTime, the upgraded bomber will now enter a series of ground and flight evaluations scheduled through 2026. Radar upgrade moves into test campaign The Raytheon AN/APQ-188 AESA radar, supplied by Raytheon, replaces the B-52’s legacy AN/APQ-166 mechanically scanned system.