Episode Summary

The Mitchell Institute is pleased to release episode 18 of its Aerospace Advantage podcast: Flying and Fighting in the B-2: America’s Stealth Bomber. Join us for an in-depth conversation with seasoned B-2 pilots Col. Keith Butler, Commander of the 509th Operations Group, and Lt. Col. Christopher Conant, Commander of the 393d Bomb Squadron of the 509th Bomb Wing. Ever since it took flight, the B-2 stands as one of the most lethal, combat capable, and technologically advanced aircraft ever invented. It can span the globe, penetrate into the most defended airspace, strike upwards of eighty independent targets, and return home safe. This is an incredible opportunity to hear from two B-2 pilots who know what it’s like to strap into the jet and fly into harm’s way. This is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Full Topic Guide

This week host John “Slick” Baum is joined by seasoned B-2 pilots Col Keith “Ghost” Butler, Commander of the 509^th Operations Group, and Lt Col Christopher “Crank” Conant, Commander of the 393th Bomb Squadron of the 509^th bomb wing to discuss what it is like to train, fly and fight in the B-2 bomber.

B-2 bombers are iconic for their wing-like design, but their performance capabilities are what set them apart. Not only are these airplanes stealthy, but they can carry upwards of eighty precision-guided weapons and span the globe on a single mission. They also fill two roles: conventional strike and as a component of the nuclear triad.

This podcast will afford a “flight line perspective” from two airmen who have deep experience within the B-2 community—both as pilots and as commanders. Learn what it’s like to fly this incredible aircraft, about the specific missions it undertakes, and where the Air Force is taking long range strike in the future.

Credits

Host:  Lt Col John “Slick” Baum, USAF, ret.

Producer: Daniel C. Rice

Executive Producer: Douglas Birkey

Guest: Col Keith Butler, Commander, 509^th Operations Group, USAF

Guest: Lt Col Christopher Conant, Commander, 393^rd Bomb Squadron of the 509^th Bomb Wing, USAF

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