// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM
B-2 Spirit
The B-2 Spirit is an American strategic bomber featuring advanced stealth technology that makes it very difficult for radar to detect. Its unique, bat-like "flying wing" design allows it to penetrate deep into enemy territory to deliver large payloads of conventional or nuclear weapons.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
The Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit is a multi-role, heavy-payload strategic bomber operated by the United States Air Force, characterized by its low-observable (stealth) technology and flying wing airframe. It is designed for penetrating dense anti-aircraft defenses to deploy both conventional and thermonuclear weapons, serving as a critical component of the U.S. nuclear triad.
BACKGROUND
The Northrop B-2 Spirit is an American nuclear-capable subsonic stealth strategic bomber, often referred to as a "stealth bomber", solely operated by the United States Air Force. A four-engined flying wing and lambda wing with a crew of two to three, it is designed with stealth technology to penetrate sophisticated air defenses.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Stealth Bomber
- Spirit Bomber
- B-2
- Flying Wing
- Advanced Technology Bomber
- Lancer
USAGE NOTE
The term is used when discussing long-range strike capabilities, strategic deterrence, and the cutting edge of military aviation technology.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to B-2 Spirit.
As the prime contractor, Northrop Grumman designed, manufactured, and is responsible for the modernization and sustainment of the B-2 Spirit fleet.
A major subcontractor on the B-2 program, responsible for producing the outboard wing sections, aft center section, landing gear, fuel system, and weapons delivery system.
Manufactures the F118-GE-100 non-afterburning turbofan engines that power the B-2 Spirit.
Developed and produces the AN/APQ-181, the low-probability-of-intercept (LPI) radar system used by the B-2. They continue to be involved in radar modernization efforts.
The sole operator of the B-2 Spirit fleet. AFGSC is responsible for the bomber's operations, maintenance, and crew training, and drives modernization requirements.
Provides and maintains the B-2's advanced electronic warfare systems, which are critical to the aircraft's stealth and survivability.
As a successor to a portion of Boeing's Wichita division, which originally built major B-2 components, Spirit AeroSystems continues to support sustainment efforts for the bomber's airframe.