Aexa Aerospace delivered a full-scale, climate-controlled prototype to house the Load Bank Test Set at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, Aug. 5. The Load Bank Test Set is equipment used to test and maintain B-52 Stratofortress systems and will undergo testing by Air Force Global Strike Command maintainers.(U.S. Air Force Courtesy Photo by Sean Green, STRIKEWERX)
By Sean Green | STRIKEWERX Facilitation and Outreach Manager
BOSSIER CITY, La. — Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) maintainers have received new defense equipment that is an innovative solution for increasing safety and responsiveness for one of America’s most iconic strategic heavy bomber aircraft.
Aexa Aerospace has delivered a full-scale, climate-controlled trailer to house the load bank test set, which is critical equipment used to test and maintain B-52 Stratofortress systems. Previously, this equipment could not be operated in inclement weather due to potential risks of unplanned electrical discharge and equipment damage.
The new enclosure, developed by the Houston-based company, includes environmental controls, a loading ramp, ventilation, and access points for direct aircraft connection. Two trailers have been produced for testing at Barksdale Air Force Base (AFB), Louisiana, and Minot AFB, North Dakota.
U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Adam Vasas, AFGSC project champion from the Logistics Innovation Branch, emphasized the impact of the prototype on readiness, saying, “This prototype will help us alleviate maintenance backlogs caused by weather, which increases aircraft availability while also providing Airmen a more comfortable, safe working environment.”
The prototype was developed from an initial design by Louisiana Tech University engineering seniors through STRIKEWERX’s Senior Design Project program. Aexa refined the concept and produced the custom trailer within two months.
“The primary benefit is that this keeps the equipment safe and ready to connect to the B-52,” said Dr. Fernando De La Peña Llaca, president and CEO of Aexa Aerospace. “It’s efficient, easy for Airmen to use, and we’re honored to support the legendary B-52 and contribute to the U.S. Air Force mission.”
The company previously collaborated with STRIKEWERX on another maintenance and sustainment innovation project for the B-52.
“Working with STRIKEWERX has been amazing,” said De La Peña Llaca. “Requirements were clearly defined, and communication was fast. That kind of speed is exactly what the Air Force needs — and STRIKEWERX delivers it.”
The project was sponsored by the AFGSC Office of the Chief Scientist and managed by the Cyber Innovation Center (CIC) via its partnership intermediary agreement. Pending further tests, the prototype could be scaled for use across the command.
About the Cyber Innovation Center
Cyber Innovation Center (CIC), located in Bossier City, Louisiana, is the anchor of the 3,000-acre National Cyber Research Park and serves as the catalyst for the development and expansion of a knowledge-based workforce throughout the region. As a 501c3 not-for-profit corporation, CIC fosters collaboration among its partners and accelerates technology, research, and development. One of its primary missions is to develop a sustainable knowledge-based workforce that can support the growing needs of government, industry, and academic partners.