Northrop Grumman B-2A Spirit  

The B-2A Spirit was originally developed as a replacement for the Boeing B-52 strategic bomber. It features a radar-absorbing structure of epoxy graphite honeycomb which gives it a "stealth" capability which allows it to penetrate most radar defences. It entered service with the USAF in 1993 and has seen action in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kosovo. It can carry a wide array of weapons including 80 x 500lb Mk82 bombs or 16 X ACM-129A Cruise missiles.

                                  89-0128                c/n AV-13                         USA  Photo: John Chalmers

3 seat strategic bomber first flown in 1990

Engines: 4x 19,000lb.s.t.(84.52kN) GE F118-GE-110                                                                          Length: 69’0"(21.03m)                                                                                        Height: 17’0"(5.18m)Wingspan: 172’0"(52.42m)                                                                                               No.built: 21 Range: 11,500miles(18,400km)                                                        Cruising speed: 593mph(954kmh) Empty weight: 158,000lb(71,574kg)                              Maximum take-off weight: 336,000lb(152,381kg)Service ceiling: 50,000'

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