The U.S. Air Force Was Going to Retire the B-1B Lancer — Then Operation Epic Fury Proved the Cold War-Era Bomber Still Has No Equal

The U.S. Air Force’s B-1B Lancer bomber played a crucial role in attacking Iranian missile facilities during Operation Epic Fury, sparking debate over its retirement. The bomber’s effectiveness in the operation has raised questions about the urgency of retiring the aircraft. The B-1B demonstrated the ability to deliver significantly more conventional firepower than stealth bombers, leading to discussions about its future role.