The US Air Force announced on 6/5 that B-1B Lancer bomber tail number 86-0115 departed Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma. This marks its return to operational capability after nearly two years of significant repairs. Over 200 military and civilian personnel from the 567th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron participated in the restoration, which involved replacing approximately 500 components.
Before its final assessment, the aircraft underwent a test flight with its bare, unpainted airframe. This critical procedure confirmed the operational capability of the aircraft's systems. Following successful tests, the B-1B was deemed mission-capable and subsequently repainted.
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B-1B bomber at Tinker Air Force Base in February. Photo: USAF
Aircraft 86-0115 was retired by the US Air Force in 2021. It was then transferred to the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG) at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona, commonly known as the US military's "aircraft boneyard". The bomber was held in "Type 2000" storage, a status that allows for restoration and return to service within several months if required.
In 2024, the US Air Force announced the revival of 86-0115. This decision aimed to replace B-1B tail number 86-0126, which sustained severe damage during an upgrade at a Boeing facility. Restoring 86-0115 was also considered more cost-effective than repairing the damaged 86-0126. Furthermore, the move helps meet a US congressional requirement to maintain 45 B-1B bombers in the Air Force inventory.
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B-1B bomber taking off at Tinker Air Force Base in February. Photo: USAF
B-1B bombers were produced between 1983 and 1988, with the first aircraft entering service on 1/10/1986. The B-1B is equipped with six external pylons and three internal weapons bays. This configuration allows it to carry 57 tons of various weapons, making it the US strategic bomber with the largest weapon payload.
This aircraft type was originally slated for retirement in 2030. However, its operational lifespan has since been extended to at least 2037, ensuring its continued service for years to come.
Pham Giang (According to War Zone)
