The B-1 Bomber Is Still Flying

A B-1B Lancer prepares to receive fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker April 21, 2010, above New Mexico. The Lancer is assigned to Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, and the Stratotanker is assigned to McConnell AFB, Kan. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Desiree N. Palacios)

B-1 Adapts, Remains Effective After 25 Years -- U.S. Air Force

DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFNS) -- The non-nuclear B-1 Lancer has adapted from a strategic mission to a close-air support role, and will continue to play an effective part in today's fight in Afghanistan and Iraq, according to leaders here.

While the remaining bombers in the Air Force inventory transferred to Air Force Global Strike Command, the B-1 has become the go-to airframe when combatant commanders want a show of force or support for ground troops.

"The predominance of what we are doing right now in theater is close-air support; non-traditional intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; and armed overwatch" said Col. Charlie Catoe, 7th Operations Group commander. "We are supporting the troops on the ground."

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My Comment: There is still life in the old bird.