The B-1B Lancer ‘Super’ Bomber Is Coming

The B-1B Lancer ‘Super’ Bomber Is Coming

Key Points and Summary – Despite celebrating its 40th anniversary, the B-1B Lancer bomber remains a “massively critical asset” for the U.S. Air Force. According to its latest budget request, the venerable bomber is receiving significant upgrades to bridge the gap until the B-21 Raider is fully operational. These changes include reactivating external hardpoints previously disabled by arms control treaties with Russia, allowing the B-1B to test hy…

B-1 Lancer celebrates 40 years of service

Originally intended as a temporary solution, the B-1B Lancer is now celebrating 40 years of service. First delivered to the U.S. Air Force as a stopgap measure until the B-2 Spirit bomber was operational, the Lancer remains a vital strategic asset. “The B-1 was only supposed to be around 10 years,” explained Lt. Col. David Hanisch, Deputy Assistant Program Manager for the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center’s B-1 Program Office. “The reason w…