Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Air Force’s strategic bombers remain a vital component of the nation’s defense strategy, as outlined in the June 18, 2025, Congressional Research Service report on U.S. Strategic Bombers. This report, released to aid Congressional understanding, details the operational capabilities and strategic importance of America’s bomber fleet, which comprises the B-52 Stratofortress, B-1B Lancer, and B-2 Spirit.
These bombers, essential for both conventional and nuclear missions, are designed to carry heavy ordnance loads over long distances, striking targets of strategic importance. The report highlights the Air Force’s development of the B-21 Raider, a new-generation stealth bomber poised to enhance the U.S.’s strategic capabilities.
The B-52 Stratofortress, operational since 1955, is known for its long-range capabilities, capable of flying 8,800 miles without refueling. It can carry up to 70,000 pounds of ordnance and is dual-capable, meaning it can execute both conventional and nuclear missions. The Air Force aims to extend the service life of the remaining 74 B-52s into the 2040s, with ongoing upgrades including the installation of new Rolls Royce F-130 engines and radar modernization to improve tracking capabilities.
The B-1B Lancer, initially designed to succeed the B-52, has been adapted for conventional missions and can carry the largest payload in the Air Force’s inventory at 75,000 pounds. Despite a reduction in fleet size from 100 to 45, Congress has set provisions to limit further retirement of this aircraft. Current operations include various training missions and bomber task force deployments.
The B-2 Spirit, a stealth bomber known for its low-observable capabilities, carries a 40,000-pound payload and is pivotal in penetrating enemy air defenses. Although the fleet currently consists of 20 aircraft, it is set to lose one due to a costly repair after a 2022 accident. These bombers are based at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri.
The strategic role of these bombers has evolved from World War II, where they played a critical role in the destruction of the German military industrial system, to their current status as a key part of the U.S. nuclear triad. According to the 2022 U.S. Nuclear Posture Review, bombers continue to be a flexible and visible leg of the nuclear arsenal.
The Air Force’s Bomber Task Force deployments, initiated in 2018, demonstrate this flexibility by performing global patrols and joint exercises with allied nations, assuring allies and deterring adversaries. These strategic deployments have expanded under the Agile Combat Employment concept, allowing bombers to operate from an increased number of bases.
Congress exercises oversight over the development, acquisition, and maintenance of these bombers, ensuring they remain an integral part of U.S. air superiority and national defense strategies. The report underscores the ongoing importance of strategic bombers in maintaining global stability and U.S. military dominance.
