Rockwell B-1B Lancer

The Rockwell B-1B Lancer is a supersonic, variable‑sweep wing bomber developed by Rockwell International for the United States Air Force. First flown in 1974 as the B‑1A, the program was halted after the 1977 energy‑crisis and later revived, resulting in the B‑1B, which entered operational service in 1986. Over 150 aircraft were produced before production ended in 1992. The B‑1B combines low‑observable shaping, advanced digital flight controls, and a sophisticated avionics suite that allows terrain‑following, all‑weather navigation, and precision‑guided munitions delivery. Its four General Electric F101‑GEs provide thrust‑vectoring capability, enabling speeds beyond Mach 1 at high altitude and sustained subsonic cruise at low level, while the variable‑sweep wings, ranging from 25 to 67 degrees, optimize performance for both high‑speed dash and low‑level penetration. The bomber’s payload capacity exceeds 75,000 pounds, supporting a mix of nuclear and conventional weapons. The B‑1B’s flexibility has made it a cornerstone of the U.S. strategic deterrent and a key asset in recent conflicts, illustrating the evolution of bomber design from pure strategic platforms to multi‑role, survivable strike systems. Modern upgrades, including advanced targeting pods and communication suites, ensure the B‑1B remains a vital component of U.S. airpower.

Rockwell International

Rockwell B-1B Lancer

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Design & Classification