Ellsworth welcomes new B-1 capability

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Lauren Wright
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  An Ellsworth B-1 launched its first local training sortie with the Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod June 10. 

This upgrade to the B-1B Lancer improves aircrews' ability to identify targets, and enhance the B-1s non-traditional intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance capability and weapon impact assessments during weapons employment.

Maintainers and aircrews here are training with teams from 337th Test and Evaluation Squadron, Dyess AFB, Texas, and representatives from the contractor involved, to better familiarize themselves with the new capabilities. The upgrade training includes classroom and hands-on exposure to the Sniper Pod; training flights on the pod are scheduled throughout June and July.

The pod supports the precision strike mission by providing coordinate generation and positive target identification. Through its video downlink capability, the system can also provide direct information to Joint Terminal Aircraft Controllers, who direct aircraft support of ground forces.

"This upgrade enhances our B-1 aircrews' situational awareness, building upon their already robust relationships with ground forces and making them more valuable to the fight," said Col. Peter Castor, 28th Bomb Wing vice commander.

Editor's Note: The 337th Test and Evaluation Squadron reports to the 53rd Wing at Eglin AFB, Fla., but is geographically separated and located at Dyess AFB, Texas.