Most of the information in this fact sheet was obtained from the US Airforce site. All information is general and not varient specific. If you find some wrong information, or can add anything please e-mail me.

Description
The B-1B is a long-range strategic bomber, capable of penetrating present and future sophisticated enemy defenses. It can perform a variety of missions, including that of a conventional weapons carrier, and a carrier for nuclear weapons.

History and Features
The first B-1B was delivered to the Air Force at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, in June 1985, with initial operational capability on Oct. 1, 1986. The final B-1B was delivered May 2, 1988.

The swing-wing design and turbofan engines of the B1B not only provide greater range and high speed at low levels but they also enhance the bomber's survivability. Wing sweep at the full-forward position allows a short takeoff roll and a fast base-escape profile for airfields under attack. Once airborne, the wings are positioned for maximum cruise distance or high-speed penetration.

The B-1B uses radar and inertial navigation equipment enabling aircrews to globally navigate, update mission profiles and target coordinates in-flight, and precision bomb without the need for ground-based navigation aids. Included in the B-1B offensive avionics are modular electronics that allow maintenance personnel to precisely identify technical difficulties and replace avionics components in a fast, efficient manner on the ground.

The B1B has a AN/ALQ 161A defensive avionics system, which is a comprehensive electronic counter-measures package that detects and counters enemy radar threats including missles attacking from the rear. It defends the aircraft by applying the appropriate counter-measures, such as electronic jamming or dispensing expendable chaff and flares. Similar to the offensive avionics, the defensive suite has a re-programmable design that allows in-flight changes to be made to counter new or changing threats.

Numerous sustainment and upgrade modifications are ongoing or under study for the B-1B aircraft. Large portions of these modifications that are designed to increase the combat capability are known as the conventional mission upgrade program. This three-phase program will increase the lethality, survivability and supportability of the B-1B fleet. Phase I of the program added the capability to release cluster bomb unit weapons. Phases II and III will further upgrade the B-1B capability, to include the ability to deliver joint direct attack munitions and standoff weapons, and greatly improve its electronic counter-measures capability.

General Characteristics
Primary function: Long-range, multi-role, heavy bomber
Contractor: Rockwell
Power plant: Four General Electric F-101-GE-102 turbofan engine with afterburner
Wing span: 137 feet (41.8 meters) extended forward, 79 feet (24.1 meters) swept aft
Thrust: 30,000-plus pounds with afterburner, per engine
Length: 146 feet (44.5 meters)
Height: 34 feet (10.4 meters)
Speed: 900-plus mph (Mach 1.2 at sea level)
Maximum takeoff weight: 477,000 pounds ((216,634 kilograms)
Ceiling: More than 30,000 feet (9,144 meters)
Range: Intercontinental, unrefueled
Crew: Four (aircraft commander, pilot, offensive systems officer and defensive systems officer)
Armament: Up to 84 Mark 82 conventional 500-pound bombs and 30 CBU-87/89/97. Also can be reconfigured to carry a wide range of nuclear weapons
Unit Cost: $200+ million
Date deployed: October 1986