The Nuclear Bomber Force in the 21st Century
Abstract
The 21st century adversary is presenting challenges to the United States unlike anything the U.S. has previously encountered. Present day adversaries are challenging the ability of the U.S. to project airpower. Rapid growth in technology has allowed U.S. adversaries to develop robust air defense systems, creating contested areas that limit the ability of the United States to gain and maintain air superiority. These new defenses have created a difficult tactical problem for the both the U.S. conventional and strategic nuclear forces to solve. Not only does the bomber force have to contend with robust advanced integrated defenses, the fleets age is becoming a concern. The United States Air Force currently has 158 bombers in its inventory. Currently, both the B-1B and the B-52H will remain in service until 2045. Age and threat capabilities are driving the Department of Defense to pursue a replacement for the B-1Bs and B-52Hs. The goal of this research is to analyze the acquisition of 100 B-21 stealth bombers and determine the right size and composition of the U.S. bomber force and determine the impact the acquisition of a new stealth bomber will have on future nuclear arms treaties.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 15, 2017
- Accession Number
- AD1055433
Entities
People
- John D. Owens
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology