Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, October 15, 2025
News Summary
Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, is set to modernize its B-52 Stratofortress fleet with the introduction of the Future-Oriented Rook Geospatial Engine (FORGE). Praeses, a local software company, has been awarded a $10.5 million contract to implement this technology, allowing for the onboard processing of geospatial data during missions. This development coincides with Praeses planning to expand its workforce in response to increased military contract demands. Additionally, Barksdale AFB continues its rigorous crew training, preparing for diverse mission roles.
Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana — The B-52 Stratofortress at Barksdale AFB is set to receive significant technological upgrades with the introduction of the Future-Oriented Rook Geospatial Engine (FORGE), following a $10.5 million contract awarded to Praeses, a Shreveport-based software development company. This innovative system will enable B-52s to process and analyze geospatial data directly onboard, allowing aircrew to make immediate operational responses during missions. Notably, this advancement comes amid a recruitment surge at Praeses, which is planning to expand its workforce to meet increasing demand for military contracts.
As part of the U.S. Air Force’s Bomber Task Force (BTF) missions, the B-52 plays a crucial role in enhancing crew readiness and validating global strike capabilities. On a recent mission on March 28, 2024, Airman 1st Class Daeden Behling, a maintainer from the 96th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, was involved in operations at Navy Support Facility, Diego Garcia. Furthermore, training programs at Barksdale include rigorous preparations for weapons system officer students and instructors, who conduct flight training exercises that emphasize both nuclear and conventional mission roles.
The FORGE system, explicitly designed to mount on the B-52’s wings, represents a key development in the aircraft’s lifecycle, which is celebrating over six decades of service. Praeses, with a 38-year history of successfully securing military contracts, aims to modernize systems further, not only within the Air Force but also expanding into projects with the Space Force, Army, and federal agencies such as DARPA. According to J.D. Hunsicker, Vice President of Governmental Programs at Praeses, the FORGE system is expected to streamline operations, thereby enhancing the natural capabilities of the B-52 fleet.
To accommodate the anticipated growth driven by these contracts, Praeses is actively seeking to increase its current staff of 85 employees. The organization is particularly focusing on hiring individuals who possess strong work ethics, intelligence, and integrity, showing a preference for candidates with background experience in government and military sectors.
In addition to technological advancements, a cooperative research and development agreement is underway between LSU Health Shreveport and Air Force Global Strike Command. This initiative aims to study the physical and cognitive stress experienced by B-52 aircrew during lengthy missions. Insights from this research are expected to contribute to optimizing B-52 operations and enhancing overall aircrew resources, ensuring personnel can perform effectively throughout their careers.
Training programs at Barksdale AFB involve extensive preparation lasting approximately 11 months, combining both academic study and practical flight training. A typical B-52 crew consists of four members: a pilot and co-pilot in the upper section of the aircraft, with a radar navigator and navigator assigned to the lower deck. The comprehensive training equips these aircrew members with the necessary skills to utilize various weapon systems effectively.
As of September 30, 2024, the B-52H Stratofortress has undergone updates, including a new orange test paint scheme—signifying the ongoing enhancements to this vital component of the Air Force arsenal.
FAQs
What is the Future-Oriented Rook Geospatial Engine (FORGE)?
The Future-Oriented Rook Geospatial Engine (FORGE) is a system designed for B-52s that enables onboard processing and analysis of geospatial data, facilitating immediate responses by crews.
What does Praeses aim to achieve with its military contracts?
Praeses aims to modernize systems beyond the Air Force, including projects with the Space Force, Army, and other federal agencies such as DARPA.
How is the training for B-52 crew members structured?
Training for B-52 crew members at Barksdale AFB lasts about 11 months and includes both academic study and flight training phases.
What is the current workforce size at Praeses, and what are their hiring plans?
Praeses currently has a workforce of 85 people and plans to expand to meet increased demand for military contracts.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| FORGE System | Onboard processing and analysis of geospatial data for immediate aircrew responses. |
| Training Duration | Approximately 11 months, combining academic study and practical flight training. |
| Praeses Workforce | Currently 85 employees, with plans to expand due to increased military contract demand. |
| B-52 Crew Structure | Consists of four members: pilot, co-pilot, radar navigator, and navigator. |
| Advanced Technologies | Ongoing updates and modernization of B-52 capabilities, emphasizing effective weapon system use. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Royal Air Force Fairford Hosts American B-52 Stratofortresses to Strengthen NATO Partnerships
Inside a Barksdale B-52 Bomber’s Historic 13,000-Mile Journey to China’s Doorstep
Additional Resources
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate: Praeses Awarded Large Military Contract
- Wikipedia: B-52 Stratofortress
- KSLA: LSU Health Shreveport Partners with Barksdale AFB
- Google Search: Barksdale Air Force Base
- Air & Space Forces: B-52s Head Home to Europe, Middle East
- Encyclopedia Britannica: United States Air Force
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