B-2A Spirit

Description
The B-2 Spirit is a multi-role bomber capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions. A dramatic leap forward in technology, the bomber represents a major milestone in the U.S. bomber modernization program. The B-2 brings massive firepower to bear, in a short time, anywhere on the globe through previously impenetrable defenses.

Along with the B-52H and B-1B, the B-2 provides the penetrating flexibility and effectiveness inherent in manned bombers. Its low-observable, or "stealth," characteristics give it the unique ability to penetrate an enemy's most sophisticated defenses and threaten its most valued and heavily defended targets. Its capability to penetrate air defenses and threaten effective retaliation provide a strong, effective deterrent and combat force well into the 21st century.

The revolutionary blending of low-observable technologies with high aerodynamic efficiency and large payload gives the B-2 important advantages over existing bombers. Its low-observability provides it greater freedom of action at high altitudes, thus increasing its range and a better field of view for the aircraft's sensors. Its unrefueled range is approximately 6,000 nautical miles (9,600 kilometers).

The B-2's low observability is derived from a combination of reduced infrared, acoustic, electromagnetic, visual and radar signatures. These signatures make it difficult for the sophisticated defensive systems to detect, track and engage the B-2. Many aspects of the low-observability process remain classified; however, the B-2's composite materials, special coatings and flying-wing design all contribute to its "stealth'"

The B-2 has a crew of two pilots, a pilot in the left seat and mission commander in the right, compared to the B-1B's crew of four and the B-52's crew of five. The price is $737,000,000. USD

Armament
UGBS: 80x Mk-82

SFFS: 36x CBU-87

UGBL: 16x Mk-84

GPB: 16x GBU-31 JDAM

GPB: 16x GBU-32 JDAM

Nuke: 16x B-81/83 Nuclear bomb GPB: GBU-28 Paveway II

SOD: AGM-154 JSOW

SOD: AGM-158 JASSM

Ace Squadrons / Pilots
Vulkan (AWWNB & OADF/ACZ)

Felsen (AWWNB & OADF/ACZ)

Comparable Aircraft
-B-1B Lancer

-Tu-160 Blackjack

Related Development
-YB-49

Source
Air Force Link