The Boeing B-1B Lancer, informally known as “The Bone” is a long-range, multi-mission, supersonic conventional bomber. It was originally designed for nuclear capabilities, but switched to a more conventional combat role in the mid 90s. In 1999, during operation Allied Force in Bosnia, six B-1s flew just 2 percent of strike missions, yet accounted for 20 percent of the ordnance. During Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, it accounted for 40% of precision weapons while still just flying on 2% of missions. Since its deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan in 2001, the B-1B has essentially been in continuous service. It is considered the backbone of America’s long-range bomber force.
The aircraft is powered by four General Electric F101-GE-102 turbofan engines providing more than 30,000 pounds of thrust per engine. These, paired with afterburners, allow the B-1B Lancer to travel at speeds of more than 900 miles per hour (Mach 1.2) when at sea level. The aircraft operates with a crew of four: an aircraft commander, copilot, and two weapon systems officers. It has a wingspan of 137 feet, a length of 146 feet, and a height of 34 feet. The aircraft weighs 190,000 pounds, has a fuel capacity of 265,000 pounds, and a maximum takeoff weight of 477,000 pounds. It has been in use by the United States Air Force since 1985 and remains on track to be used at its current operations tempo until 2036. Phasing out of the B-1B is set to commence in 2025, with the Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider slated to be its replacement.
