GAO Warns B-52 Upgrade Program Faces Rising Costs, Delays, and Readiness Risks A new report from the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) highlights mounting challenges in the US Air Force’s $21-billion effort to modernize the B-52 Stratofortress fleet. The review found that 10 of the 13 life-extension initiatives aimed at keeping the bombers operational through 2050 are encountering budget overruns, schedule setbacks, and operational concerns. The Commercial Engine Replacement Program (CERP) remains the largest challenge, with costs increasing by $3 billion since 2023 to $15.4 billion and the program falling 15 months behind its planned timeline. These delays are complicating maintenance operations as repair depots continue to face shortages of components for the legacy Pratt & Whitney TF33 engines. The GAO warned that further setbacks could reduce operational readiness across the Air Force’s 76 active B-52 aircraft by creating a temporary capability gap. Despite the concerns, the Air Force plans to move into engine production before developmental flight testing concludes, a decision the GAO says could lead to additional costs if design changes become necessary. The agency recommended delaying production until program risks are better understood. The Air Force fully supported five of six recommendations but only partially agreed with postponing the CERP production decision following evaluations of program performance, logistics, and aircraft availability.
