The Evolution of the B-1 and its Adaptation to Modern Warfare

[Talyn]

Originally conceived as a supersonic long-range strategic nuclear heavy bomber, the B-1 has evolved into a very effective multi-role conventional warplane.​

Initially a Mach 2.2 design in the B-1A, and subsequently cancelled, the bomber was reimagined and resurrected as the Mach 1.25 B-1B with improved low-level penetration capabilities. Soviet air defenses continued to improve, and high-altitude aircraft were at risk, as proven by the earlier U-2 incident. Consequently the USAF shifted strategy to high subsonic speed low-level penetration attacks.

With the fall of the Soviet Union the nuclear role of the B-1 was soon ended, leading to the aircraft being converted for conventional roles, which the heavy bomber has become very adept at.

The Evolution of the B-1 and its Adaptation to Modern Warfare

Originally conceived as a supersonic long-range strategic nuclear heavy bomber, the B-1 has evolved into a very effective multi-role conventional

theaviationist.com

A B-1B Lancer of the 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron taking to the skies on Oct. 19, 2021, at RAF (Royal Air Force) Fairford, United Kingdom. An impressive sight anytime but dramatically amplified in this image taken during low light conditions. (Image credit: United States Air Force/Senior Airman Colin Hollowell)

 

[ECS686]

Spent 7 years in SAC with 5 at a B52 wing. After the bugs got worked out the B1 was quite the bird (even though I am partial to the B52)

A few years later I did a 3 month TDY at Ellsworth SD when activated with the Air Guard and whem in the missile field in Montana we watched the B52’s and B1’s streak across big sky country tj the bombing ranges quite the sight!

 

[Pitdogg2]

The Taliban found out how good they were

 

[Talyn]

Along time ago I was hiking down into the Havasupai Reservation on the west-side of the Grand Canyon when I heard a sound and looked up at a flight (~12) of B-1s flying at a leisurely pace with wings swept forward heading west (towards Nellis?) right over our heads.

Pretty impressive & cool.

 

[last2brake]

I never realized how much I was gonna like B1's until I saw one fly.

But this problem the USA has about shrinking production in the middle of production has got to stop. Our enemies don't let liberals dictate the sizes of their military inventory. In fact, I think our enemies are somewhat behind these inventory reductions. I mean, they can insert spies into our military to harvest our secrets, so they can certainly try to get into our defense inventory reductions.

Damn, American stupidity is so malleable.