Risk management for the B-1B computer upgrade

The B-1B has received a great deal of criticism since it was first fielded in 1985. Much of this criticism, deserved or not, was the result of perceived shortcomings in the avionics system-especially the Defensive Avionics System. These shortcomings were largely the result of software deficiencies, the B-1B is now entering a conventional mission upgrade, which will include replacing some of the computers and modifying some of the software. The challenge for the B-1B Conventional Weapons Team is to manage the risk inherent in this computer upgrade in order to prevent more criticism in the future. This will require a new approach to the way risk has been managed for the B-1B. This paper briefly describes the history of the B-1B's computer hardware and software, risk management techniques used previously on the B-1B program, lessons learned, and risk management plans for the conventional mission upgrade now under way for the B-1B.