VIDEO: B-2 Flies for the First Time in Months After Security Pause
The B-2 is again within the air.
Air Pressure World Strike Command shared video of the B-2 Spirit taking off and touchdown from Whiteman Air Pressure Base, Mo., on Could 22—the stealth bomber’s first flight since December.
Air & House Forces Journal first reported the tip of the protection pause on Could 18. Air Pressure World Strike Command imposed a “security pause” following a Dec. 10 accident whereas investigators drilled down on potential questions of safety affecting all the fleet.
The 36-second video reveals the plane taxiing and taking off, interspersed with pictures of the air and floor crew earlier than, and reveals the plane touchdown very briefly. B-2 crews drilled frequently in simulators in the course of the pause and likewise took reps in coach plane to apply takeoffs and landings, essentially the most difficult facets of flying the bomber.
AFGSC didn’t reply to queries despatched early Could 22.
In textual content accompanying the video, the command emphasised that even in the course of the security pause, the Air Pressure’s small fleet of B-2s remained accessible to fly missions essential to nationwide safety—very important given the plane’s position because the nation’s solely stealth nuclear-capable bomber in service.
The video additionally famous that B-2 aircrew and maintainers stayed prepared in the course of the security pause. Pilots frolicked within the superior simulators at Whiteman and elevated repetitions in T-38 trainers, whereas maintainers ensured the stealth low-observable coating, which is essential for the B-2’s nuclear mission, was nicely taken care of.
Nonetheless, the return to flying operations is being dealt with rigorously, eighth Air Pressure commander Maj. Gen. Andrew J. Gebara beforehand advised Air & House Forces Journal.
“I need them to return again in a disciplined, deliberate method,” Gebara stated. “However we’ll do full operational missions. So that you’re not going to see one loop round and land sort of sorties. It’ll be a standard sortie. I truly am not involved in any respect in regards to the mission facets of the drive.”
The Air Pressure has declined to disclose the precise reason for the mishap that originally sparked the protection pause. The accident occurred after a profitable emergency touchdown, and a fireplace was reported on the plane.
The service has additionally declined to element what actions have been taken to raise the protection pause, or give the standing of the plane concerned within the mishap.
