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-1Bs 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 bombers 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 aircrafts 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:

l     Low radar cross-section to make detection considerably more 
difficult.
l     Ability to fly lower and faster while carrying a larger payload.
l     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.