The venerable USAF B-52 Stratofortress strategic bomber is getting the first major upgrade to its communications system in many years. The 565th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Tinker Air Force Base is installing Combat Network Communications Technology (CONECT) designed to give the aircraft enhanced situational awareness and mission flexibility, as well as a digital architecture that will provide the foundation for future upgrades.

CONECT gives the B-52 a digital "backbone," enabling aircrew to receive digital tasking messages and real-time intelligence and threat data from multiple sources via satellite-based communications. All crew stations on the aircraft will be digitally linked, enabling information sharing while in flight.

The 12th modified aircraft was recently completed, enabling Global Strike Command to declare Initial Operational Capability for the CONECT-equipped B-52. Eventually, all B-52H aircraft will be fitted with the new system.