The multi-role bomber B-2 Spirit testifies to the commitment of the U.S. Air Force to ensuring air superiority. Indeed, the B-2 is capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions, representing the quantum leap in bomber technology, and has become a critical component of the U.S. bomber modernization program. This aircraft projects massive firepower anywhere around the world, piercing through even the most advanced defenses.
The B-2 is without equal in stealth. The low-observable characteristics of this bomber allow the B-2 to penetrate enemy territory undetected by infrared, acoustic, electromagnetic, visual, and radar sensors. This stealth results from a combination of composite materials, special coatings, and flying-wing design. Because its intended targets will be far away from the United States and many allies, it may have quite a greater freedom of action than other platforms when used at high altitudes, offering increased range and sensor effectiveness. The B-2 is capable of flying approximately 6,000 nautical miles without refueling and intercontinental range with refueling.
Operational history underpins the effectiveness of the B-2. First flown on July 17, 1989, since then it has shown its combat efficiency in many operations. During Operation Allied Force, for example, it could destroy 33 percent of Serbian targets within the first eight weeks, flying nonstop sorties from Missouri to Kosovo. It was during Operation Enduring Freedom that it flew one of the longest sorties: from Whiteman AFB to Afghanistan and back. Its involvement in Operation Iraqi Freedom further cemented its place aircraft conducted 22 sorties from forward bases, and another 27 from Whiteman AFB, releasing over 1.5 million pounds of munitions.
The various key contractors that were in the production and design development of B-2 involved Northrop Grumman, Boeing Military Airplanes Co., Hughes Radar Systems Group, General Electric Aircraft Engine Group, and Vought Aircraft Industries, Inc. Four engines power the aircraft, with each General Electric F118-GE-100 providing 17,300 pounds of thrust. With a wingspan of 172 feet and a maximum takeoff weight of 336,500 pounds, the B-2 is capable of carrying 40,000 pounds of payload.
The crew of the B-2 is comprised of two pilots, while the B-1B has four and the B-52 has five. This reduced crew size greatly impacts this technologically advanced aircraft, making it operationally efficient from the standpoint of personnel requirements.
The B-2 Spirit plays a strategic role in supporting America’s nuclear triad. In concert with the B-52 Stratofortress and the B-1B Lancer, the B-2 provides the U.S. with a credible and ever-present deterrent. This makes the B-52 a very flexible and reliable platform with the first flight dating back to 1954 and a very wide array of munitions. The B-1B Lancer complements the B-2 and B-52 in delivering a full-spectrum operation bomber force, able to reach high speed and boast a small radar signature.
In short, the B-2 Spirit is one reason the United States remains a leader in air power. It melds low observability, range, and massive ordnance capacity into a potent modern combatant that promises accurate, strong strikes from the United States against any place in the world. As the Air Force continues to evolve, the B-2 will be at the leading edge of confronting global strategic instability.