Boeing selects Honeywell’s APU for the B-52

Boeing has selected Honeywell’s proven 36-150 auxiliary power unit (APU) to upgrade the B-52 with an on-wing Auxiliary Starter Air Unit (ASAU) as part of the Commercial Engine Replacement Program (CERP). Each ASAU consists of an APU and controller that provides high-pressure air to start the main jet engines before departure.

The Honeywell ASAU allows the reengined B-52 bomber aircraft to meet operational quick-start requirements without the use of ground support equipment, thus enhancing mission readiness and flexibility of aircraft operations.

“The B-52 is one of the most enduring USAF aircraft ensuring force readiness against emerging threats,” said Dave Marinick, president, Engines and Power Systems, Honeywell Aerospace. “We are confident that our proven 36-150 APU will exceed the expectations of the USAF throughout the CERP contract and subsequent B-52 active-duty squadron service that will last until at least 2050. Honeywell auxiliary power systems proudly serve on every generation of USAF long-range strike aircraft, and Honeywell looks forward to continuing to serve the USAF on the next phase of the B-52’s operational life.”

Honeywell’s B-52 ASAU is a derivative of Honeywell’s successful 36-150 APU model series. Honeywell has delivered over 10,000 36-150 APUs for over 20 commercial and military applications since initial entry into service. The 36-150 APU has been adapted to meet the diverse needs of business jets and regional transport aircraft, light fighter and trainer aircraft, helicopters, and mobile ground power applications.

Honeywell continues to invest in 36-150 APU technologies to enhance performance and reliability. This new version is equipped with the latest compressor technology originally developed for the commercial aircraft sector, with minor modifications to meet the specified performance and installation requirements of the B-52 ASAU application.

Earlier this year, Lockheed Martin Sikorsky-Boeing DEFIANT X helicopter, currently a contender to win the U.S. Army’s Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) competition, also selected Honeywell’s 36-150 APU for its auxiliary power needs.

Honeywell has a long history of supporting the USAF and Boeing by providing aircraft secondary power systems and APUs. Honeywell secondary power systems are in active service on the F-15, F-22, F-35, and F/A-18 fighter jets. Honeywell APUs are also in active service on USAF C-130 and C-17 transport aircraft, and M32 ground carts.