The Rockwell B-1 Lancer is a supersonic variable-sweep wing, heavy bomber used by the United States Air Force (USAF). Often referred to as the "Bone" (from "B-One"), it was originally designed as a replacement for the B-52 Stratofortress, capable of flying at Mach 2 speeds with a low-altitude penetration capability.
Here are some key characteristics of the B-1 Lancer:
- Role: Primarily a long-range, multi-role conventional bomber. While initially designed as a nuclear bomber, it was converted in the 1990s to carry only conventional payloads.
- Variable-Sweep Wings (Swing-Wing): This is one of its most distinctive features. The wings can pivot backward for high-speed, low-altitude penetration or extend forward for increased lift during takeoff, landing, and high-altitude cruising, allowing for greater fuel efficiency and range.
- Engines: It is powered by four General Electric F101-GE-102 afterburning turbofan engines, giving it immense power and enabling its supersonic speed.
- Speed: The B-1B variant (the one currently in service) is capable of supersonic flight at high altitudes (Mach 1.25) and has excellent low-altitude penetration capabilities, flying at high subsonic speeds (around Mach 0.96) to avoid radar detection.
- Payload Capacity: The B-1B has a very large internal and external payload capacity. It can carry up to 75,000 pounds (34,000 kg) of ordnance internally in three weapon bays and 50,000 pounds (23,000 kg) externally on six wing pylons (though external carriage is rarely used operationally). It can carry a wide array of conventional weapons, including general-purpose bombs, cluster bombs, and precision-guided munitions like JDAMs (Joint Direct Attack Munitions) and JSOWs (Joint Stand-Off Weapons).
- Range: It has an intercontinental range, capable of launching from bases in the U.S. and striking targets anywhere in the world with aerial refueling.
- Crew: It typically operates with a crew of four: aircraft commander, co-pilot, offensive systems officer, and defensive systems officer.
- Operational History: The B-1B entered service in the mid-1980s and has been extensively used in combat operations, including Operation Desert Fox, Operation Allied Force, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom, primarily for close air support and strategic bombing missions.
