What IRIS adds to the B-52
Developed by Shreveport-based Outerlink Global Solutions, IRIS integrates a satellite communications terminal with aircraft and ground components. It is designed to improve mission execution and operational flexibility during long-range strike missions.
“The ability to communicate reliably across vast distances is foundational to our global operations,” said Maj. Gen. Ty Neuman, commander of 8th Air Force and the Joint-Global Strike Operations Center. “Fielding IRIS gives our crews a modern tool to stay connected, share information, and execute the mission in dynamic and contested environments.”
Testing and fielding advanced in early 2026
Ground and flight testing in March 2026 demonstrated reliable airborne connectivity and the technical maturity needed for operational use. The 49th Test and Evaluation Squadron and 608th Air Operations Center confirmed end-to-end performance through approved network pathways.
The B-52 System Program Office approved airworthiness, and flight testing proceeded later that month. By April 1, multiple IRIS kits had been installed on aircraft and delivered to the 49th Test and Evaluation Squadron for training and operational employment.
Development followed a $26 million funding agreement
The first airborne demonstration took place on a B-52 at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, in June 2022. The 608th Air Operations Center assessed voice and data transfers, including images and video.
The command then used an AFWERX Small Business Innovation Research Phase II contract to integrate Outerlink’s commercial system onto the bomber. In 2023, the effort transitioned into a $26 million Strategic Funding Increase contract, the first designated to Air Force Global Strike Command.
The command’s Rapid Capabilities and Bomber Requirements divisions defined requirements around the aircraft’s constraints and modernization priorities. The B-52 System Program Office, 49th Test and Evaluation Squadron and 307th Bomb Wing contributed technical expertise and operator input.
“Partnership is what made this possible,” said Maj. Gen. Peter Bonetti, director of the command’s Strategic Plans, Programs, and Requirements Directorate. “We had a clear operational need, the right partner capabilities, and engaged stakeholders working together to deliver capability operators needed and are using today.”
Operational use continues alongside prototype evaluation
IRIS remains a prototype despite its operational fielding. Additional testing and evaluation will inform its development and the command’s decisions on longer-term beyond-line-of-sight communications.
The B-52 has supported U.S. long-range strike and nuclear deterrence missions for more than 70 years. The Air Force said modern communications remain essential to its global operations and joint-force requirements.
“This is about readiness,” said Jackie Ford, the command’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.”
