The U.S. Air Force (USAF) has advanced its plan to modernize the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress after completing a critical design review for the CERP engine replacement program that will lead to the B-52J variant.
The review clears the way for the modification of the first two aircraft, which will receive new Rolls-Royce F130 engines in place of the original TF33 units dating back to the 1960s. Boeing will carry out the integration work, with the first bomber set to enter modification later this year.
The upgrade goes beyond new engines, including electrical and onboard systems intended to support future mission requirements. Once converted, the aircraft will undergo flight testing before the program expands to the rest of the B-52 fleet.
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The B-52 is expected to remain in service for decades, with U.S. plans effectively extending its operational life close to a century since its first flight in 1952. In the future force structure, the bomber will operate alongside the Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider, which is being developed to penetrate advanced air defenses.
At the same time, the Air Force has adjusted its transition timeline. Part of the Boeing B-1B Lancer and Northrop B-2 Spirit fleets is now expected to remain in service longer than previously planned, potentially into the late 2030s.
The decision stems from delays in the B-21 program as well as a more demanding geopolitical environment, which has increased the need to maintain a larger bomber force in the near term. The Air Force currently operates 44 B-1B aircraft and 19 B-2s.
