A U.S. Airforce B-1B Lancer long-range bomber with the 28th Bomb Wing crashed near Broadus, Montana, during a routine training mission...
A U.S. Airforce B-1B Lancer long-range bomber with the 28th Bomb Wing crashed near Broadus, Montana, during a routine training mission on Aug. 19.
A crew of two pilots and two weapon
systems officers were on board. All four members of the aircrew safely
ejected with some injuries.
"We are actively working to ensure the
safety of the crew members and have sent first responders to secure the
scene and work closely with local authorities at the crash site,” said
Col. Kevin Kennedy, the 28th Bomb Wing commander. "Right now all of our
thoughts and prayers are with the crews and their families,"
Carrying the largest payload of both guided and unguided weapons in the
Air Force inventory, the multi-mission B-1 is the backbone of America's
long-range bomber force. It can rapidly deliver massive quantities of
precision and non-precision weapons against any adversary, anywhere in
the world, at any time.
Air Force officials will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the accident.
The B-1B's blended wing/body configuration, variable-geometry wings and
turbofan afterburning engines, combine to provide long range,
maneuverability and high speed while enhancing survivability. Forward
wing settings are used for takeoff, landings, air refueling and in some
high-altitude weapons employment scenarios. Aft wing sweep settings -
the main combat configuration -- are typically used during high subsonic
and supersonic flight, enhancing the B-1B's maneuverability in the low-
and high-altitude regimes. The B-1B's speed and superior handling
characteristics allow it to seamlessly integrate in mixed force
packages. These capabilities, when combined with its substantial
payload, excellent radar targeting system, long loiter time and
survivability, make the B-1B a key element of any joint/composite strike
force.
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