Many posts have discussed the US military.
Mission
The B-2 Spirit is a multi-role bomber capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions. A dramatic leap forward in technology, the bomber represents a major milestone in the U.S. bomber modernization program. The B-2 brings massive firepower to bear, in a short time, anywhere on the globe through previously impenetrable defenses.
Features
The B-2 provides the penetrating flexibility and effectiveness inherent in manned bombers. Its low-observable, or "stealth," characteristics give it the unique ability to penetrate an enemy's most sophisticated defenses and threaten its most valued, and heavily defended, targets. Its capability to penetrate air defenses and threaten effective retaliation provides a strong, effective deterrent and combat force well into the 21st century.
The revolutionary blending of low-observable technologies with high aerodynamic efficiency and large payload gives the B-2 important advantages over existing bombers. Its low-observability provides it greater freedom of action at high altitudes, thus increasing its range and a better field of view for the aircraft's sensors. Its unrefueled range is approximately 6,000 nautical miles (9,600 kilometers).
The B-2's low observability is derived from a combination of reduced infrared, acoustic, electromagnetic, visual and radar signatures. These signatures make it difficult for the sophisticated defensive systems to detect, track and engage the B-2. Many aspects of the low-observability process remain classified; however, the B-2's composite materials, special coatings and flying-wing design all contribute to its "stealthiness."
The attacks on Iran "were a remarkable feat. Seven vast, space-age style aircraft, each 170 feet wide, flew 7,000 miles nonstop from their airbase near Kansas City to targets in central Iran, undetected by enemy radar. They refueled mid-air, multiple times. They each dropped their 15-ton bombs with extraordinary precision. And then they flew straight home again, only touching back down in Missouri on Sunday afternoon. (Watch the vid here of their return.)"
"Yes, B-2 bombers have toilets on board. Yes, their crews take turns to cook microwave meals, and eat, and nap. (This Defense News interview with B-2 bomber pilots from 2019 answers a lot of questions about what it’s actually like on board ... and The Atlantic did a great profile of a long-range B-2 bombing raid back in 2018.)"
