B-2 Spirit is Evolving with Agility and Innovation.

The B-2 Spirit, which revolutionized stealth technology and strategic deterrence 35 years ago with its first flight on July 17, 1989, continues to evolve. Northrop Grumman, in collaboration with the US Air Force, is integrating cutting-edge technologies to ensure the B-2 remains equipped for future conflicts. Recently, the B-2 program marked a step with the deployment of its first integrated and agile functional capability, called Spirit Realm 1 (SR 1). SR 1 provides critical updates to the bomber’s communication and weapon systems via an open mission systems architecture, significantly enhancing combat capabilities and enabling a new phase of agile software updates.
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The Northrop B-2A Spirit is a stealth strategic bomber and an advanced technology bomber. (Picture source: Northrop Grumman)

"We are rapidly deploying capabilities with zero software defects through our software development ecosystem, further increasing the mission effectiveness of the B-2 fleet," said Jerry McBrearty, director and acting program manager for the B-2 at Northrop Grumman. "The agile framework methodology within SR 1 directly supports the Air Force's initiative to integrate new capabilities into the aircraft, allowing for immediate mission execution."

SR 1 introduces new displays, flight hardware, and updates that enhance the B-2’s survivability. Developed entirely within the B-2 Spirit Realm software factory—a collaboration with Air Force Global Strike Command and the B-2 Systems Program Office—this integration makes the B-2 the first legacy nuclear platform to adopt the Department of Defense’s DevSecOps processes and digital tools.

"The implementation of the software factory is opening new possibilities for the B-2 to carry advanced weapons and capabilities that will further strengthen our nation’s strategic deterrence," said Colonel Frank Marino, senior materiel leader and B-2 systems program manager for the US Air Force.

The Northrop B-2A Spirit is a stealth strategic bomber and an advanced technology bomber. It made its first flight on July 17, 1989, and entered service in April 1997, with a planned retirement in 2032. In 1996, the investment in this program was approximately USD 45 billion, equivalent to around $73 billion today. The unit cost of a B-2 in 1998 was approximately USD 2.2 billion, which is about $3 billion today. A total of 21 units were built.

The B-2A Spirit has a crew of 2 to 3 people and is powered by four General Electric F118 turbofan engines without afterburners, each providing a thrust of around 8,116 kgf, or 77 kN. These engines allow the B-2 to maintain a cruising speed of 870 km/h and reach a maximum speed of 1,010 km/h (Mach 0.95).

The aircraft has a wingspan of 52.43 meters and a length of 21.03 meters. Its empty weight ranges between 45,360 and 49,900 kg, with a maximum armed weight of 158,760 kg. The B-2 can operate at a ceiling of 15,200 meters and has a range of 11,000 km, making it a considerable strategic asset for long-range missions. Its wing loading is 329 kg/m².

In terms of armament, the B-2A Spirit is designed to carry up to 16 SRAM 2 or AGM-129 missiles, as well as B61 and B83 nuclear bombs internally. Its ability to remain stealthy while carrying an impressive arsenal makes it essential for nuclear deterrence operations and advanced strategic bombing missions.

Spirit Realm leverages integrated digital tools to design, manage, build, and test B-2 software more efficiently than ever. These tools also interface with other legacy systems, facilitating rapid testing and deployment, and allowing for early identification and resolution of potential risks in the software development process. The program has successfully demonstrated its agile software development capabilities in both flight and laboratory environments by rapidly deploying a software update to the integrated test facility, where it could be verified and subsequently loaded onto the aircraft.

As the battlefield continues to evolve, Northrop Grumman, in partnership with the US Air Force, remains committed to delivering new capabilities to stay ahead of emerging threats.