The groundcrew give scale to this larger-than-you-imagine aircraft. From this view the aircraft’s various sensor panels are visible. The B-2 is not very high; it is only 17ft to the top of the cockpit and only 69ft long, but its wingspan is 172ft. It is powered by four General Electric F-118-GE-100 engines giving the aircraft a high-subsonic cruise speed. The B-2’s low observability is derived from a combination of reduced infrared, acoustic, electromagnetic, visual and radar signatures. This provides the mission commander with freedom of action at higher altitudes, thus increasing the aircraft’s range and giving a better field of view for its sensors. 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, we are told.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Northrop B-2 Spirit - СШАUSA - 1989

From head-on the B-2 almost looks like a flying saucer, but pictured here at the end of its landing roll the aircraft takes on a very stubby appearance. The huge main undercarriage doors make it look a bit like a bird of prey covering its latest victim.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Northrop B-2 Spirit - СШАUSA - 1989

B-2A Spirit 92-1069 Spirit of Indiana flew a short display on arrival at Fairford on Friday, July 23, 1999, before the assembled press. The aircraft arrived from Whiteman AFB after a 30hr flight.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Northrop B-2 Spirit - СШАUSA - 1989

USAF groundcrew members clean up the aircraft before the public gets to see it. Note the integral aircraft ladder, on which are recorded not only the names of the groundcrew chiefs but the name “Christine” less formally painted on.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Northrop B-2 Spirit - СШАUSA - 1989

B-2 pilots Major “Omlet” (left) and Captain “Fang” of the 303rd Bomb Squadron kept their anonymity at Fairford’s press launch. You can’t help wondering whether the Major, callsign “Omlet”, is in fact the Mission Commander, Major Brawley, whose name is stencilled on the nosewheel door of the aircraft.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Northrop B-2 Spirit - СШАUSA - 1989