|
The B-1 strategic bomber is
being developed by the Air Force to modernize its strategic
bomber force. As a key element of the nation's strategic Triad
of manned bombers, land-based and sea-launched missiles, the new
bomber will be able to serve the United States' nuclear
deterrence objective through its ability to deliver heavy
payloads over long ranges and through a hostile environment.
A medium gross weight bomber powered by four 30,000 pound
(13,600 kilogram) thrust class augmented turbofan engines, the
B-1's three large weapons bays will provide it the flexibility
to carry nuclear air-to-surface missiles, nuclear or
conventional gravity bombs, mines, other weapons, or fuel as
required by varying mission requirements. It will carry a crew
of four.
While only two-thirds the size of the B-52, the B-1 is designed
to carry nearly twice the payload. Its variable geometry, or
"swing," wing will enable it to fly efficiently at supersonic
speeds at high altitudes and at high subsonic speeds at treetop
altitudes. This swing-wing feature will permit faster takeoff
from much shorter runways. The aircraft will have greater
hardness to the effect of a nuclear blast, far faster
penetration speed, lower penetration altitude, and a greatly
reduced radar cross section compared to the B-52.
The B-1 will also:
• Through a combination of rapid acceleration, short runway
requirement, subsystem design and improved hardness to nuclear
effects reach a safe escape distance from its launch base much
faster than the B-52. This significantly improves its
survivability should an enemy attempt a surprise ICBM or SLBM
attack.
• Takeoff in a much shorter distance and will thereby be able to
use about 150 more existing runways than are available to the
B-52. This permits greater dispersal and faster reaction by the
Strategic Air Command (SAC) alert-bomber farce.
• Have a greater capability to penetrate an enemy's defenses.
This stems from higher speeds at lower altitudes as well as
advance electronic countermeasures and a small radar cross
section. |
