Ellsworth B-1s testing new sniper pod sensor

[unhappycamper]

Ellsworth B-1s testing new sniper pod sensor
By Dennis Gale - The Associated Press
Posted : Monday Jun 16, 2008 6:44:06 EDT

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Tests are underway on a high-tech attachment to the Air Force’s B-1B bombers that will let their crews guide precision weapons and provide real-time intelligence to troops on the ground, Sen. John Thune (R-Naturally) says.

The top Air Force commander in Iraq and Afghanistan has rated the sniper pod as urgently needed, Thune, R-S.D., told South Dakota reporters.

Ellsworth airmen and members of a testing squadron from Texas tested the equipment on an Ellsworth B-1 for the first time during a training mission Tuesday.

“It’s a big improvement in capabilities right now,” Ellsworth Lt. Col. Lucien Grise told the Rapid City Journal. “Basically, it’s another sensor we can use to improve our accuracy and improve the timeliness of a strike we are performing in support of the ground forces.”

Thune also said the Air Force is measuring the combat readiness of the B-1 bomber, which he calls the workhorse of the nation’s bomber fleet.


Rest of article at: http://www.airforcetimes.com/news/2008/06/ap_b1_sensor_061508/