The B1 and B2 bombers are both important current military aircraft, but there are some distinct differences between them. Comparing the two reveals various differences in mission capabilities, design, and the role they both play in modern defense tactics.
B-1 Lancer
The B-1 is a long-range, multi-role, supersonic conventional bomber. It is capable of reaching a top speed of Mach 1.25 and can fly intercontinental ranges without stopping to refuel. It is equipped with a variety of weapons, including long-range cruise and air-launched missiles.
Five Quick Facts About The B-1
1. The B-1 Lancer is the world’s first supersonic variable swept-wing bomber.
2. The B-1 was designed to fly at altitudes of up to 30,000 feet and speeds of 900 mph.
3. The B-1 was designed to carry a payload of up to 75,000 pounds.
4. The B-1 is powered by four General Electric F101-GE100 engines, each producing 32,000 pounds of thrust.
5. Over 100 B-1s have been built since its introduction in the 1980s and it is still in active service.
B-2 Spirit
The B-2 is a stealth heavy bomber designed for deep penetration of enemy airspace. It has a top speed of Mach 0.95 and is equipped with long-range air-launched cruise missiles and nuclear weapons. In addition, it can easily evade most enemy air defenses due to its low observability and low radar profile.
Five Quick Facts About The B-2
1. The B-2 Spirit is a strategic bomber designed by Northrop Grumman for the US Air Force that first flew in 1989.
2. The B-2 is capable of carrying up to two 20-kiloton nuclear bombs.
3. The B-2 is one of the most expensive military aircraft ever to be developed and produced, costing over two billion U.S. dollars in its initial production run.
4. The B-2 has a low radar cross-section, which is thought to be roughly the size of a small bird or the head of a golf pin that the radar beam essentially bounces off of it.
5. The B-2’s includes the ability to refuel in flight and its maximum altitude of 50,000 feet, although its normal operating altitude is around 40,000 feet.
