The Bone looks back to the B-1A test program that preceded the operational B-1B Lancer. Four B-1A prototypes were built to explore a new generation of long-range supersonic bomber technology.
The Relic from B-1A 74-0159
The relic comes from the second B-1A prototype, serial number 74-0159. The aircraft was lost on 29 August 1984 during a test flight from Edwards Air Force Base.
Material recovered from B-1A prototype 74-0159 after its 1984 accident.
During the flight, the aircraft entered an extreme nose-high condition associated with an aft center-of-gravity problem. The crew attempted to recover, but the B-1A's escape capsule deployed at low altitude. Test pilot Doug Benefield was killed; the other crew members survived with injuries.
From B-1A to B-1B
The original B-1A program emphasized high-speed penetration. After cancellation and later revival of the bomber requirement, the design evolved substantially into the B-1B, optimized for lower-altitude penetration and reduced radar signature.
The relic from 74-0159 connects the operational Lancer to the dangerous flight-test work that preceded it and to the crews who pushed the prototype program forward.
Share: