In a decision announced May 10, Boeing has been selected to serve as integrator for a program to install new commercial engines on the B-52 bomber. The Commercial Engine Replacement Program (CERP) is the latest in a series of modernizations that will ensure the aircraft remains mission-ready through at least 2050. “The (U.S.) Air Force has long recognized that new engines are the right choice to carry the B-52 into the future,” said James Kroening, B-52 program manager. “The aircraft is structurally viable for years to come, and it’s the only large, heavy bomber of its type in the current and future fleet. We are very proud to have been selected as integrator and excited to partner with the Air Force as the CERP gets under way.”
It looks like USAF is genuinely serious about this engine replacement program for B-52 and putting the infrastructure in place to make it happen. The only thing lacking at this point is the funding. And if I read the tea leaves right Congress supports the program and will find and authorize the funds.