B-1B “Lancer”
BY BOEING
The B-1B is the improved variant of the B-1A, which was cancelled in 1977. The program was resurrected in 1981 with the first production model flying in 1984. The B-1B was delivered to the Air Force in 1985.
The B-1B’s blended wing/body configuration, variable-geometry design, and turbofan engines continue to provide great range and high speed, more than 900 mph at sea level. Forward wing settings are used for takeoff, landings, and high-altitude maximum cruise. Swept wing settings are used in high subsonic and supersonic flight and also enhance the B-1B’s maneuverability.
The B-1B employs forward-looking radar and terrain-following radar. Its extremely accurate Global Positioning System/Inertial Navigation System, Doppler radar, and radar altimeter enable aircrews to navigate around the world without ground-based navigation aids.
The Museum’s B-1B, serial number 83-0069, was flown to Robins AFB in 2002 and is marked as 86-0098, a B-1B that was assigned to the Georgia Air National Guard’s 116th Bombardment Wing, which flew them from Robins from 1996-2002.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Span: 136 ft. 8 in. extended, 78 ft. 2 in. swept
Length: 146 ft.
Height: 34 ft.
Weight: 477,000 loaded
Armament: Up to 84 Mk-82 GPU bombs, 30 CBU-87/89 cluster bombs or 24 GBU-31 JDAMs
Engines: Four General Electric F101-GE-102 afterburning turbofans of 30,000 lbs. thrust ea.
Serial Number: 83-0069
PERFORMANCE:
Maximum speed: 850 mph.
Cruising speed: 647 mph.
Range: 6,100 miles
Service ceiling: 49,200 ft.
