Northrop Grumman to Provide RF Transmitter for B-1B Bomber's Electronic Warfare System

The $44.1 million contract will equip the B-1B's AN/ALQ-161A system with key components for 360-degree jamming coverage.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The U.S. Air Force has awarded Northrop Grumman a $44.1 million sole-source contract to provide band driver and RF transmitters for the B-1B Lancer bomber's AN/ALQ-161A electronic warfare (EW) system. The AN/ALQ-161A is an integrated RF countermeasures system that provides 360-degree receive and jamming coverage against multiple threats, as well as a tail warning function.

Why it matters

The AN/ALQ-161A is a critical EW system that helps the B-1B bomber crews identify, acquire, and defend against enemy radar and missile systems. Upgrading and sustaining this system is essential for maintaining the B-1B's combat effectiveness in an evolving threat environment.

The details

The AN/ALQ-161A is made up of more than 108 line-replaceable units (LRUs) that weigh over 5,000 pounds and consume 120 kilowatts of power. The system automatically sorts threats by priority and reacts against them, while also being designed to minimize the bomber's electronic signature when the jammer is active.

  • The three-year contract with Northrop Grumman is expected to be completed by March 2029.

The players

Northrop Grumman Corp.

An American aerospace and defense technology company that was awarded the $44.1 million contract to provide key components for the B-1B's electronic warfare system.

U.S. Air Force

The military service that operates the B-1B Lancer bomber and requires the advanced electronic warfare capabilities of the AN/ALQ-161A system.

Defense Logistics Agency Weapons Support

The U.S. government agency that announced the sole-source contract with Northrop Grumman for the B-1B's EW system components.

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The takeaway

This contract highlights the U.S. Air Force's ongoing efforts to maintain and upgrade the electronic warfare capabilities of its B-1B bomber fleet, ensuring the aircraft can effectively counter evolving radar and missile threats in future conflicts.