The Telemetry department also provides ancillary equipment support. Pictured above is one of our neutron detectors. The older model utilized an oil bath scintillator but the newer model detector employs plastic scintillators. These neutron detectors are placed in an array around a target and detects/records any neutron activity that occurs.
The 49th Test and Evaluation Squadron at Barksdale AFB, La., perfects lethality by executing conventional and nuclear Operational Test & Evaluation, directing Nuclear Weapon Systems Evaluation Program and developing tactics, techniques and procedures to maximize B-52 readiness, optimize CAF integration, and validate national defense capabilities. The 49th TES executes conventional OT&E to increase B-52 capabilities through improvements in sensors, weapons, communications, and navigation systems. The squadron also plans, executes, analyzes, and reports ACC's $50 million annual air-delivered NucWSEP (Combat Sledgehammer). Reliability data for nuclear capable aircraft (B-52, B-2, F-15 and F-16) and weapons (all nuclear bombs and cruise missiles) is reported to USSTRATCOM for inclusion in their annual strategic war plan update. The 49th TES is the Air Force's premier cruise missile test organization, launching approximately 6-12 conventional and nuclear cruise missiles each year.
