The first B-1 bomber upgraded with the Boeing Integrated Battle Station or IBS, departed Tinker AFB yesterday Jan 21st. The modification essentially turns the B-1 into a new aircraft with the addition of full color displays, moving maps and a new diagnostics system.
The upgrade, the most extensive modification program in B-1 history, enhances the bomber by giving crews greater situational awareness of what is happening in the battlespace around them, in addition to faster and more secure communication capabilities that improve crews’ ability to engage enemy targets.
Personnel from the 76th Aircraft Maintenance Group installed the production-level kits, Col. Jed McCray, commander of the 76 AMXG, said approximately 17,725 man-hours were invested in the IBS upgrade.
"This modification makes the B-1 a more effective weapon," said Colonel. Mike Senseney, B-1 System Program Manager."
Charles Alley, director of the 565th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, said, "The installation of the IBS by our mechanics, with the support of the B-1 System Program Office and Boeing, ensures that the B-1 will be the premier bomber for years to come."
On any given day, Tinker has up to half a dozen B-1s on base for programmed depot maintenance.
