Along with the B-52 and B-1B, the B-2 provides the penetrating flexibility and effectiveness inherent in manned bombers. Its low-observable, or "stealth" characteristics give it the unique ability to penetrate an enemy's most sophisticated defenses and threaten its most valued, and heavily defended, targets.   

The B-2's low observability is derived from a combination of reduced infrared, acoustic, electromagnetic, visual and radar signatures. These signatures make it difficult for the sophisticated defensive systems to detect, track and engage the B-2. Many aspects of the low-observability process remain classified; however, the B-2's composite materials, special coatings and flying-wing design all contribute to its "stealthiness."   

The B-2 has a crew of two pilots, a pilot in the left seat and mission commander in the right, compared to the B-1B's crew of four and the B-52's crew of five.   

The first B-2 was publicly displayed on Nov. 22, 1988, when it was rolled out of its hangar at Air Force Plant 42, Palmdale, Calif. Its first flight was July 17, 1989.   

Whiteman AFB, Mo., is the B-2's only operational base. The first aircraft, Spirit of Missouri, was delivered Dec. 17, 1993.   

The prime contractor, responsible for overall system design and integration, is Northrop Grumman's Military Aircraft Systems Division. Boeing Military Airplanes Co., Hughes Radar Systems Group and General Electric Aircraft Engine Group are key members of the aircraft contractor team.   

General Characteristics   

Primary function: Multi-role heavy bomber.   
Prime Contractor: Northrop Grumman Corp.   
Contractor Team: Boeing Military Airplanes Co., General Electric Aircraft Engine Group and Hughes Training Inc., Link Division   
Power Plant: Four General Electric F-118-GE-100 engines   
Thrust: 17,300 pounds each engine   
Length: 69 feet (20.9 meters)   
Height: 17 feet (5.1 meters)   
Wingspan: 172 feet (52.12 meters)   
Speed: High subsonic   
Ceiling: 50,000 feet (15,152 meters)   
Takeoff Weight (Typical): 336,500 pounds (152,635 kilograms)   
Range: Intercontinental, unrefueled   
Armament: Conventional or nuclear weapons   
Payload: 40,000 pounds (18,144 kilograms)   
Crew: Two pilots   
Unit cost: Approximately $1.3 billion   
Date Deployed: December 1993   
Inventory: Active force: 21 (planned operational aircraft); ANG: 0; Reserve: 0