T
he B-1B bomber, commonly called “Bone,” has dropped more bombs than any other aircraft since the global war on terror began, says Lt. Col. Michael Eliason, director of operations for 9th Bomb Squadron at Dyess AFB, Tex. “We’ve become an exceptional close air support asset and are often the weapon of choice because of our loiter capability and payload,” asserts Eliason. The Bone, which holds 100 world records for speed, payload and distance, can carry more weapons—guided or unguided—and can fly low level or high altitude at 900 plus miles per hour.
The Air Force Historical Foundation has recognized two Air Force B-2 Spirit bomber wings among the winners of its 2025-2026 prestigious annual awards, selecting both for their part in Operation Midnight Hammer, the daring raid on Iran’s fortified nuclear weapons sites.
