AFGSC delivers vital upgrade to B-52 communications system
Air Force Global Strike Command has modernized the communications capabilities on the B-52 Stratofortress with a beyond line-of-sight communications prototype, delivering a meaningful modernization boost to the bomber fleet.
Developed by Shreveport based Outerlink Global Solutions, IRIS integrates a satellite communication terminal with aircraft and ground components configured to support B-52 beyond-line-of-sight communications. It is designed to improve mission execution and increase operational flexibility across long-range strike missions, giving aircrews a modern connectivity option for today's missions.
"The ability to communicate reliably across vast distances is foundational to our global operations," said Maj. Gen. Ty Neuman, 8th Air Force and the Joint-Global Strike Operations Center commander. "Fielding IRIS gives our crews a modern tool to stay connected, share information, and execute the mission in dynamic and contested environments."
A foundation built through partnership
The effort builds on AFGSC's earlier work to demonstrate and mature IRIS for the B-52. In June 2022, the 49th Test and Evaluation Squadron executed the first air demonstration of the system on a B-52 at http://www.barksdale.af.mil/, Louisiana. During that event, a team from the 608th Air Operations Center assessed voice and data transfer from the IRIS-equipped aircraft, including transmission of images and video.
Following the successful demonstration, AFGSC continued working through the Air Force's innovation and acquisition pathways to move the capability from test to operational use. The command leveraged an AFWERX Small Business Innovation Research Phase II contract to integrate the commercial Outerlink Global Solutions system onto the B-52.
In 2023, that work transitioned into a $26 million Strategic Funding Increase (STRATFI) contract: the first STRATFI contract designated to AFGSC and a deliberate use of the AFWERX small business pathway to move from prototype toward operational use.
Turning need into functional capability
Multiple organizations across several Major Commands (MAJCOMs) executed fluid collaboration to align against an operational need, enabling the rapid fielding of IRIS on the B-52.
The command’s A5N Rapid Capabilities Division and A5B Bomber Requirements Division led the requirements effort, defining and translating a known operational need into clear parameters aligned with B-52 platform constraints and AFGSC's long-term modernization priorities. Through close partnership across the enterprise, their work helped successfully transition the capability into an operational reality.
The B-52 System Program Office, 49th TES and the Total-Force Airmen from the 307th Bomb Wing each contributed expertise, guidance, and operator perspective to ensure the capability developed into an effective addition to the bomber weapon system. Command leadership prioritized the effort, and 8th Air Force leaders helped ensure the team remained focused on the right operational outcome, facilitating the rapid implementation of IRIS on the B-52. Together, that cross-MAJCOM team moved IRIS forward at a pace rarely seen for a platform of the B-52's complexity.
"Partnership is what made this possible," said Maj. Gen. Peter Bonetti, director of AFGSC’s Strategic Plans, Programs, and Requirements Directorate (AFGSC/A/5/8). "We had a clear operational need, the right partner capabilities, and engaged stakeholders working together to deliver capability operators needed and are using today."
From accelerated testing to fielded prototype
Testing and fielding advanced significantly in early 2026. In March, ground and flight testing demonstrated reliable airborne connectivity and the technical maturity needed to support operational use, with the 49th TES and the 608th AOC confirming end-to-end performance through approved network pathways. The B-52 SPO approved airworthiness, and flight testing proceeded later that month.
As of April 1, 2026, multiple IRIS kits were installed on aircraft and have been delivered to the 49th TES in support of training and operational employment. While IRIS is currently fielded operationally, the work continues. The system remains a prototype, and additional testing and evaluation will continue as the capability matures and as AFGSC determines long-term solutions for the bomber beyond line-of-sight communications.
What it means for the mission
The B-52 has served as a cornerstone of the nation's long-range strike and nuclear deterrence missions for more than 70 years. As the platform continues to evolve, modern communications remain essential to ensuring the aircraft can support global operations, joint force requirements and the demands of an increasingly contested environment.
"This is about readiness," said Ms. Jackie Ford, AFGSC’s Rapid Capabilities division chief. "Rapidly fielding capabilities into our operators' hands will ensure the B-52 remains ready not just for today's mission, but for the missions of tomorrow as well."
The fielding of IRIS reflects AFGSC's continued focus on delivering combat-ready capabilities at the speed of operational need, aligning requirements, testing and acquisition with strong industry partnerships to strengthen the B-52's ability to fight and win in any environment.
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