Just like cars or boats, fighter planes have several models that have stood the test of time. True technological feats, these military designs are fully anchored in our common and cultural heritage. This is the case for the Northrop B-2 Spirit, a “stealth bomber” still in service. An ingenious aircraft, with a unique design but a (very) high cost, which is nevertheless destined to be replaced.
The Northrop B-2 Spirit, an icon of the American army
It is an aerial Rolls Royce. Appearing, like many famous large combat aircraft, during the Cold War, the B-2 was born in the premises of the Northdrop Grumman Corporation within the US Air Force in the late 1980s.
However, it would not enter service until after the end of the Cold War, around 1997. Classified in the category of “flying wings”, those rare aircraft whose cockpit is integrated into the wing, the B-2 Spirit would make history with its angular, even triangular, design, which was immediately recognizable.
A technical feat necessary for a very “stealthy” rendering for this aircraft whose first missions took place a few months later during the Kosovo war before being deployed in international theaters of war, such as Iraq or Afghanistan.
The technical sheet of the B-2 Spirit, a technological gem
A stealth aircraft, used for supply or direct attacks from enemy space with the ability to carry powerful missiles, also means advanced technologies during its design. A quick look at its technical sheet gives us an idea of the prowess of this aircraft.
It has four non-afterburning turbojet engines from General Electric. Its wingspan is 52 m and its length is 21 m. On the scale, the B-2 Spirit's weight is 45 tonnes for a maximum load (fuel and equipment) of more than 150 tonnes.
An aerial behemoth that was delivered in about twenty copies for the American army. In terms of speed, the cruising speed was 870 km, far from what the famous SR-71 Blackbird could do! CNN in a dedicated article in 2020 summarized the phenomenal capacity of this aircraft: “The B-2 can reach a target anywhere in the world and return to base, refueling in mid-air.”.
The astronomical price of the air legend
Intended to be replaced in the 2030s by the highly anticipated B-21 Raider, the B-2 Spirit will remain in the hall of fame of the most ingenious and iconic aircraft in the U.S. military. The average cost for each aircraft is estimated at more than 2 billion dollarsmaking it the most expensive combat aircraft of the 20th century.
Quite a record. It is one of the few devices to appear often in the world of video games, notably in the best-selling license in the history of the genre, Call Of Duty with the series of Modern Warfare. During online games, the player can call the famous plane to lend a hand on the battlefield.
“The U.S. Air Force's B-2 stealth bomber is a key part of the nation's long-range strike arsenal and one of the most survivable aircraft in the world. Its unique stealth characteristics allow it to penetrate the most sophisticated enemy defenses.” Northrop Grumman is keen to point out on its website.
An aircraft that broke all economic records, the B-2 Spirit bomber cost the American army around 45 billion dollars during the 1990s. A profitable investment when, almost 30 years after its entry into service, the triangular giant still convinces its owners.
Source: Le Figaro
Already published on 01/05/2024
With an unwavering passion for local news, Christopher leads our editorial team with integrity and dedication. With over 20 years’ experience, he is the backbone of Wouldsayso, ensuring that we stay true to our mission to inform.
