Four survive South Dakota's Rockwell B‑1B Lancer bomber crash, stirring serious setback for US aviation
A dangerous event was reported at Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota. All four crew members of the Rockwell B-1B Lancer bomber could safely exit the aircraft during an unsuccessful landing effort.
12:33 PM EST, January 5, 2024
The disaster occurred during a mid-training mission for the crew. The incident unfolded around 11:50 AM Eastern Time, with an investigation by a specialized military committee to follow.
Regrettably, further details regarding the incident remain unknown at this time. It's inevitable, however, that the disaster produces a significant setback for American aviation.
A bitter loss for the American military aviation fleet
The Rockwell B-1 Lancer is one of the most formidable long-range bombers in the US military's arsenal. The aircraft is equipped to carry 132,277 pounds of bombs, with a range estimated to be about 7,456 miles.
The American Air Force's flagship bomber, produced by Rockwell International in 1986, is the B-1 Lancer. With a take-off weight exceeding 476,198 pounds, the bomber's design anticipates the survival of a potential atomic wave from a nuclear bomb detonation. Furthermore, a unique coating on the bomber's hull significantly decreases radar visibility.
The production cost of a singular Rockwell B-1B Lancer is immense. According to unofficial information, the cost exceeds 200 million dollars. The B-1 bombers are projected to be in service within the American air fleet until 2040.
