Air Force Seeks Sustainment for U-2 Radar
The military is requesting information to maintain the ASARS-2 radar system as the U-2 aircraft fleet nears retirement.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Military
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The U.S. Air Force has issued a request for information regarding long-term sustainment support for the ASARS-2 radar system. This move comes as the branch prepares to retire its remaining fleet of U-2 spy planes by the end of fiscal 2027.
Why it matters
The solicitation highlights the logistical challenge of maintaining legacy sensor systems for a fleet that is approaching its final service deadline. Ensuring the radar remains operational is essential for the U-2, which conducts high-altitude reconnaissance missions.
The Air Force maintains a cap of 8 U-2 aircraft as directed by House appropriators, significantly lower than the 149 aircraft the branch previously planned to divest. The U-2 continues to operate at altitudes exceeding 21,300 meters.
The players
U.S. Air Force
This branch of the United States Armed Forces is responsible for air and space warfare and global reach capabilities.
Raytheon
This major aerospace and defense contractor provides advanced technology systems and services for military and government clients.
Air Force Life Cycle Management Center
This organization is responsible for the acquisition and support of Air Force systems throughout their operational life.
The details
Contractors are being asked to provide engineering support, repair spare assets, and manage software updates for the ASARS-2 radar. While Raytheon has provided the system since the 1980s, the Air Force currently lacks ownership of the sensor data required for internal maintenance.
Timeline
The ASARS-2 baseline radar system first entered service during the 1980s.
The Air Force took delivery of the initial ASARS-2A radar in 2001.
U-2 aircraft participated in Exercise Dragon Shield in January 2026.
The Air Force posted the request for information on October 22, 2026.
Responses to the request for information are due by November 18, 2026.
Political Context
Opponents of the Air Force's divestment strategy have consistently pushed back against rapid retirement, arguing that legacy assets like the U-2 provide unique intelligence capabilities that newer systems cannot yet fully replicate. Legislative oversight committees continue to demand that the branch maintain a minimum operational capacity until suitable replacements are ready.
This contracting request does not directly impact civilian taxpayers or local communities but indicates a continued reliance on specialized aging technology. The move ensures that remaining U-2 assets stay operational for their final missions before the scheduled 2027 retirement.
The takeaway
The Air Force is prioritizing the maintenance of its high-altitude sensor capabilities even as the platform reaches the end of its life cycle. Maintaining radar functionality ensures the U-2 remains a viable asset for reconnaissance through the 2027 retirement date.
Further reading
For more background on ongoing procurement, visit the Military section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Defence Blog.
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