B-2 Spirit
Specs, top speed, range and facts
The B-2 Spirit is a stealth strategic bomber built by Northrop Grumman in the USA. It first flew in 1989 and entered service in 1993. Reach targets in the world's most heavily defended airspace unseen, carrying a large load across intercontinental distances.
Photo: Northrop B-2 Spirit on Wikipedia (free licence)
- Top speed1,010 km/h (628 mph)
- Range11,100 km (6,897 miles)
- First flight1989
- Wingspan52.4 m (172 ft)
B-2 Spirit specs
| Top speed | 1,010 km/h (628 mph) · Mach 0.95The Air Force lists its speed only as "high subsonic". This number is an estimate. |
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| Range | 11,100 km (6,897 miles)Intercontinental; extended further by aerial refueling. |
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| Service ceiling | 15,240 m (50,000 ft) |
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| Length | 21 m (69 ft) |
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| Wingspan | 52.4 m (172 ft) |
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| Height | 5.2 m (17 ft) |
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| Max takeoff weight | 171 t (376,105 lb) |
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| Empty weight | 72 t (158,070 lb) |
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| Crew and capacity | 2 crew |
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| Engines | 4 × F118 turbofan |
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| First flight | 1989 |
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| Entered service | 1993 |
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| Built by | Northrop Grumman (USA) |
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B-2 Spirit facts
- Only 21 were built, making it one of the most expensive aircraft ever.
- Its flying-wing shape has no vertical tail at all.
Quick quiz
When did the B-2 Spirit first fly?
In 1989.
Who built the B-2 Spirit?
Northrop Grumman, in the USA.
How fast can the B-2 Spirit fly?
Its top speed is 1,010 km/h (628 mph) · Mach 0.95.
How far can the B-2 Spirit fly?
About 11,100 km (6,897 miles).
Photos, a true-scale silhouette, quizzes, flashcards, the Size Lab and the Sky Run game.
B-2 Spirit vs similar aircraft
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