Rockwell B-1B Lancer

Summary

Description

The B-1B Lancer, commonly known as the "Bone" (B-One), is a long-range, multi-role, heavy bomber used by the United States Air Force (USAF). First envisioned in the 1960s as a supersonic bomber with sufficient range and payload to replace the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, it developed primarily into a low-level penetrator with long range and supersonic speed capability.

The B-1B's development was steeped in political controversy, with its high cost and changing mission objectives causing several project cancellations. Finally, the project was resurrected and the B-1B became a mainstay of the USAF's bomber fleet, alongside the B-52 and the stealth B-2 Spirit.

Designed by Rockwell International (now part of Boeing), the bomber’s sophisticated design incorporates variable-geometry wings, which can be swept back and forth in-flight to optimize performance. At full sweep, the wings allow the B-1B to achieve high speeds, while at full forward, they provide increased lift and fuel efficiency, ideal for long-range missions.

The B-1B's blended wing/body configuration, variable-geometry wings and turbofan afterburning engines, contribute to its long range and high-speed capabilities. Its low-radar cross-section and high-speed capabilities make the B-1B difficult to detect and engage, thus enhancing its survivability.

Armament

The B-1B Lancer showcases a robust armament system. It is equipped with three internal weapons bays, designed to minimize the aircraft's radar signature and accommodate a significant payload. These bays can carry an impressive load of up to 75,000 pounds of munitions, providing the B-1B with substantial offensive might.

The B-1B’s armament includes a diverse range of bombs, missiles, and mines. Among these are the precision-guided munitions like the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) and the Laser JDAM. The JDAM is a guidance kit that converts unguided bombs, or "dumb bombs" into all-weather smart munitions. The Laser JDAM, on the other hand, adds a laser seeker to the nose of a JDAM-equipped bomb, enabling it to precisely engage moving targets.

Moreover, the B-1B carries anti-ship and land-attack cruise missiles. These missiles are designed for long-range precision strike capabilities against high-value targets on land and at sea. The B-1B's missile capabilities enhance its strategic role in a variety of combat scenarios.

In addition to these weapons, the B-1B can carry the Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM). The LRASM is a stealthy anti-ship cruise missile that provides the B-1B with a powerful maritime strike capability. This missile is designed to detect and destroy specific targets within groups of ships, providing a significant advantage in naval combat scenarios.

The B-1B Lancer is also capable of carrying nuclear weapons, further expanding its role in strategic deterrence. The aircraft's ability to carry these weapons, coupled with its long range and high-speed capabilities, make it a critical element of the USAF’s bomber force.

Operational history

The B-1B entered service with the USAF in 1986. The bomber's first combat use came in December 1998 during Operation Desert Fox, where it launched conventional bombs on Iraq. The B-1B has been subsequently used in a variety of combat scenarios, including operations in Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq.

In Afghanistan, during Operation Enduring Freedom, B-1Bs dropped a significant amount of the total bombs and conducted approximately 2% of all strike sorties. The bomber's ability to loiter for extended periods and deliver precision strikes made it a crucial asset in supporting ground troops.

During the Iraq War, the B-1B played a notable role in Operation Iraqi Freedom. It was responsible for 43% of all Joint Direct Attack Munitions dropped during the conflict. As in Afghanistan, its long loiter times and precision capability were highly valued.

Over the years, the B-1B Lancer has continued to evolve with upgrades to its avionics, systems, and weapon capabilities to remain an effective part of the USAF's bomber fleet. However, as of 2020, plans have been announced to retire the B-1B from service, with the new B-21 Raider slated to replace it.

Variants

• B-1A: This was the initial version of the B-1, designed as a high-altitude, Mach 2.0-capable bomber. However, only four prototypes were built, as the B-1A program was canceled in 1977.
• B-1B: This is the variant that was eventually put into service. It is optimized for low-level penetration of enemy defenses. It has a reduced radar cross-section compared to the B-1A, but also a lower top speed.

Technical specifications

Current operating countries

Country		Units
	United States	43

Numbers in parentheses, e.g. '(+5)', indicate units ordered but not yet delivered.

All operators

United States

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

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