USAF B-1B chooses Meggitt's wheel and brake system

Meggitt, a leading international company specialising in components and sub-systems for aerospace, defence and energy markets, has been selected on the B-1B Wheel and Brake System Improvement programme by the US Air Force ("USAF").

The programme, with the Defense Logistics Agency - Ogden, due to commence in early August is worth an estimated $190 million over the life of the aircraft and includes the retrofit of circa 66 bombers.


The wheel and brake design for the B-1B, an eight-wheeled strategic long range bomber which can carry large payloads of guided and unguided weapons in the USAF's inventory, was first developed by Meggitt in the 1970s.

Meggitt's state-of-the-art solution will provide the best value over all with significant operating cost and logistical improvements. The upgraded performance and reliability specification was met by incorporating Meggitt's high performance Nu-Carb carbon heatsink material which is expected to last almost four times longer in service.

NuCarb has been proven in the field by demanding high-cycle airlines involving frequent take-offs and landings. The more modern wheel and brake frame technology provides enhanced thermal management, and more weight efficiency.

Source : Meggitt Plc.