Description

This book covers the complete history of the B-1 Lancer from its inception, through production, and operations with Strategic Air Command. Chapters includes: The development and definition of requirements for a new strategic bomber to replace the B-52, from design beginning through contract selection and production of the four B-1A prototypes: Flight testing of the airframe and avionics, weapons integration testing, and follow-on testing of the avionics, weapons and ECM systems; Aircraft types used in support of B-1 research and development, and B-1 flight test; B-1A and B-1B Aircraft and Avionics systems description; B-1 Stores Management System and Weapons certifies for carriage by the B-1B; B-1 Aircraft Maintenance System; Brief history of the wings and squadrons flying the B-1B; Description of the modifications and updates to the aircraft since production; Tables are included which cover B-1 program milestones, communication and navigation equipment, aircraft specifications and performance, production number and serial number list, aircraft camouflage and paint schemes, and Aircraft name/nose art history; An individual history of each of the 104 B-1s manufactured, including photos of each configuration, paint scheme, and nose art to have appeared on the aircraft.