A B-1B on final approach for a touch and go at Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Mission
The B-1B is a multi-role, long-range bomber, capable of flying intercontinental missions without refueling, then penetrating present and predicted sophisticated enemy defenses. It can perform a variety of missions, including that of a conventional weapons carrier for theater operations. The bomber can also serve a number of collateral missions flown by the B-52 bomber, such as long-range sea surveillance and mine-laying operations.
Features
The B-1B's electronic jamming equipment, infrared countermeasures, radar location, and warning systems complement its low-radar cross-section (one one-hundredth that of a B-52) and form an integrated defense system for the aircraft.
The swing-wing design and turbofan engines not only provide greater range and high speed at low levels but they also enhance the bomber's survivability. Wing sweep at the full-forward position allows a short takeoff roll and a fast base-escape profile for airfields under attack. Once airborne, the wings are positioned for maximum cruise distance or high-speed penetration. The B-1B holds 36 world records for speed, payload and distance.
The B-1B uses radar and inertial navigation equipment that provides for worldwide navigation and precision bombing without the use of external updates.
Included in the B-1B offensive avionics are modular electronics that allow greater in-flight precision and fast, efficient maintenance on the ground. The aircraft's AN/ALQ 161A defensive avionics is a comprehensive electronic counter-measures package that detects enemy radar threats and missiles attacking from the rear. It defends the aircraft by applying the appropriate counter-measures, such as electronic jamming or expendable chaff and flares. Similar to the offensive avionics, the defensive suite has a re- programmable modular, digital design that allows in-flight changes to be made to counter new or changing threats.
The B-1B represents a major upgrade in U.S. long-range capabilities over the aging B-52 - the previous mainstay of the bomber fleet. Significant advantages include:
- Low radar cross-section to make detection considerably more difficult.
- Ability to fly lower and faster while carrying a larger payload.
- Advanced electronic countermeasures to enhance survivability.
Differences between the B-1B and its predecessor, the B-1A of the 1970s, are subtle, yet significant. Externally, only a simplified engine inlet, modified over-wing fairing and relocated pilot tubes are noticeable. Other less-evident changes include a window for the offensive and defensive systems officers' station and engine housing modifications that reduces radar exposure. The B-1B has been structurally redesigned to increase its gross takeoff weight from 395,000 to 477,000 pounds (177,750 to 214,650 kilograms). Still, the empty weight of the B-1B is but 3 percent greater than that of the B-1A. This added takeoff weight capacity, in addition to a movable bulkhead between the forward and intermediate weapons bay, allows the B-1B to carry a wide variety of nuclear and conventional munitions. The most significant changes, however, are in the avionics, with low-radar cross-section, automatic terrain- following high-speed penetration, and precise weapons delivery.
Background
The first B-1B was delivered to the Air Force at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, in June 1985, with initial operational capability on Oct. 1, 1986. The final B-1B was delivered May 2, 1988.
General Characteristics
Primary Function: Long-range, multi-role, heavy bomber.
Builder: Rockwell International, North American Aircraft.
Operations Air Frame and Integration: Offensive avionics,
Boeing Military Airplane; defensive avionics, AIL Division.
Power Plant: Four General Electric F-101-GE-102 turbofan engine
with afterburner.
Thrust: 30,000-plus pounds (13,500-plus kilograms) with
afterburner, per engine.
Length: 147 feet (44.8 meters).
Wingspan: 137 feet (41.8 meters) extended forward, 78 feet (23.8
meters) swept aft.
Height: 34 feet (10.4 meters).
Weight: Empty, approximately 185,000 pounds (83,250 kilograms).
Maximum Takeoff Weight: 477,000 pounds (214,650 kilograms).
Speed: 900-plus mph (Mach 1.2 at sea level).
Range: Intercontinental, unrefueled.
Endurance: With refueling, crew endurance.
Ceiling: 30,000 feet (9,000 meters).
Crew: Four (aircraft commander, pilot, offensive systems officer,
and defensive systems officer).
Armament: Up to 84 Mark 82 conventional 500-pound bombs
internally with external hard points for an additional 12 weapons.
Also can be reconfigured to carry a wide range of nuclear
weapons.
Date Deployed: June 1985.
Unit Cost: $200-plus million per aircraft.
Inventory: Active force, 94; ANG, 0; Reserve , 0.
Point Of Contact:
Air Combat Command
Public Affairs Office
90 Oak St.
Langley AFB, VA 23665-2191
DSN 574-5007 or (804) 764-5007.
