The B-1B Lancer, nicknamed the “Bone,” is a supersonic variable-sweep wing heavy bomber that serves as a cornerstone of U.S. Air Force long-range strike capability. Entering service in 1986, it can dash at over Mach 1.2 while carrying up to 75,000 pounds of weapons—the largest conventional payload of any American bomber. With swing wings, low-altitude penetration features, and a crew of four, the B-1B has delivered combat power in every major conflict since the 1990s and continues flying with ongoing upgrades into the 2040s.