Rockwell B-1B Lancer
Summary
| Category | Bomber |
| Origin country | 🇺🇸 United States |
| First flight | 23 March 1983 |
| Year of introduction | 1986 |
| Number produced | 104 units |
| Average unit price | $283 million |
Description
In the late 1960s, the United States explored the possibility of acquiring a new supersonic strategic bomber capable of penetrating enemy defenses for conventional and nuclear strikes.
Thus began a long and intricate program of studies that resulted in the design of the B-1A in 1974, with 4 prototypes being built. However, this program was terminated due to the disarmament efforts undertaken by major powers in the 1970s.
It was not until 1981 that newly-elected President Reagan decided to revive the B-1 program. A highly improved version of the initial prototypes, called the B-1B, was eventually developed. It was less complex and costly, with reduced radar signature.
Despite its imposing dimensions, the Lancer possesses maneuverability comparable to that of a fighter aircraft. Its variable-geometry wing allows it to operate at supersonic speeds and carry out low-altitude penetration missions. Equipped with sophisticated avionics, the B-1B can carry a payload of 60,000 kg - an absolute record in this field - consisting of conventional or nuclear weapons.
Technical specifications
| Version: B-1B | |
|---|---|
| Crew | 4 members |
| Operational range | 12000 km (7456 mi) |
| Maximum speed | 1340 km/h (833 mph) |
| Wing area | 181.2 m² (1950.4 sqft) |
| Wingspan | 41.8 m (137.1 ft) |
| Height | 10.4 m (34.1 ft) |
| Length | 44.5 m (146.0 ft) |
| Service ceiling | 18000 m (59055 ft) |
| Empty weight | 87100 kg (192022 lbs) |
| Max. takeoff weight | 216400 kg (477080 lbs) |
| Powerplant | 4 × turbojets General Electric F101-GE-102 delivering 6577 kgp, up to 14288 kgp with afterburner |
| Ejection seat | McDonnell Douglas ACES II |
Current operating countries
| Country | Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
United States | 43 | |
Numbers in parentheses, e.g. '(+5)', indicate units ordered but not yet delivered.
All operators
Armament
Missiles payload:
- Air-to-Surface AGM-158 JASSM
- Air-to-Surface Raytheon AGM-154 JSOW
Bombs payload:
- Cluster Aerojet CBU-87/B CEM
- Thermonuclear B61
- Guided Boeing GBU-31/B JDAM
- Guided Boeing GBU-39/B SDB
- Cluster CBU-89/B Gator
- Thermonuclear Livermore B83
- Cluster Lockheed-Martin CBU-103/B WCMD
- Cluster Lockheed-Martin CBU-104/B WCMD
- Low-Drag Mk 82
- Low-Drag Mk 84
- Cluster Textron CBU-97/B SFW
- Cluster Textron CBU-105/B WCMD
Photo of B-1B Lancer
3-view profile
