B-2 ‘Spirit of Ohio’ returns to service

Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. — The B-2 Spirit tail number 82-1070, known as the Spirit of Ohio, has returned to operations following programmed depot maintenance in Palmdale, California, completed on June 23, 2026.

“Every single B-2 is a strategic asset, making the return of the Spirit of Ohio critical to national security,” said Col. Jason Shirley, B-2 System Program Manager with the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center’s Bombers Directorate. “Returning the aircraft to the flight line directly bolsters the number of bombers available and ensures that combatant commanders have the assets required to meet global deterrence missions, while also providing the necessary flight hours to train and maintain the readiness of our bomber aircrews.”

Depot-level work is essential to preserve the aircraft’s survivability and safety. Without it, the bomber would gradually lose its low observable characteristics, increasing its exposure to radar and modern air defenses. Skipping the inspections and component replacements performed during this maintenance cycle would also elevate the risk of structural fatigue and system failures.

With the restoration complete, the Spirit of Ohio again provides a penetrating long-range strike option. Its blend of stealth, large payload capacity, and extended range enables it to evade sophisticated defenses and engage heavily protected, high-value targets worldwide.

The aircraft remains dual-capable, able to deliver both conventional and nuclear munitions, reinforcing its role as a credible deterrent and a key element of the nation’s nuclear triad.