how far can b-2 bombers fly on one tank
The B-2 Spirit stealth bomber has a range of approximately 6,000 nautical miles (6,900 miles or 11,100 kilometers) on a single tank of fuel, but the actual range can vary depending on several factors such as:
1. Payload: The weight and size of the payload can affect the range of the aircraft.
2. Altitude: Flying at higher altitudes can increase the range due to lower air density.
3. Speed: Flying at slower speeds can increase the range due to lower fuel consumption.
4. Weather: Weather conditions such as headwinds or turbulence can affect the range.
The B-2 Spirit has a fuel capacity of approximately 167,000 pounds (75,750 kilograms) of fuel, which is stored in internal fuel tanks. The aircraft is powered by four General Electric F118-GE-100 non-afterburning turbofans, each producing 17,000 pounds of thrust.
It’s worth noting that the B-2 Spirit is designed to be refueled in mid-air, which allows it to extend its range and stay aloft for longer periods of time. The aircraft can be refueled by a KC-135 Stratotanker or a KC-10 Extender tanker aircraft.
Here are some approximate ranges for the B-2 Spirit based on different mission profiles:
* Low-altitude, high-speed mission: 4,000-5,000 nautical miles (4,600-5,800 miles or 7,400-9,300 kilometers)
* High-altitude, low-speed mission: 6,000-7,000 nautical miles (6,900-8,100 miles or 11,100-13,000 kilometers)
* Long-endurance mission: 8,000-10,000 nautical miles (9,200-11,500 miles or 14,800-18,500 kilometers) with mid-air refueling.