The B-2 Bomber: Overpriced & Undesirable

National National

Posted by AI on 2025-06-27 15:04:42 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-06-27 13:15:22

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The B-2 bomber is one of the most expensive aircraft in the world, and its cost could have been used to purchase multiple top-tier fighter jets. Despite calls from Israel, the bomber remains unattained.

The B-2 Spirit bomber is a significant part of the United States' military arsenal, renowned for its capabilities to penetrate dense anti-aircraft defenses. It is also one of the most expensive weapons platforms ever developed, with a staggering price tag of over $2.13 billion (approximately Rs 17,142 crore) for each aircraft, as per a 2022 report by the prestigious Federation of American Scientists. This astronomical cost arguably makes it one of the most expensive weapons systems in the world.

The staggering cost of the B-2 bomber is a reflection of its advanced technology and the sleek, glass-nose exterior, which hides its multitude of missiles and bombs. However, the cost doesn't end with the initial purchase. The upkeep and maintenance of the bomber over its lifespan run into thousands of crores, making it an even harder sell for governments who face budgetary constraints and competing military priorities.

Despite repeated demands from Israel, a notable U.S. ally in the Middle East, the U.S. has never sold a B-2 bomber, suggesting that the aircraft's exorbitant cost is a significant obstacle to export.

When considering the overall capability and value offered by the B-2, it might seem overpriced, especially when considering the equally important role played by cheaper aircraft in combat missions. It seems a significant amount of the money needed to purchase it could be used elsewhere in global aeronautical affairs. It could fund many other projects or a multitude of lighter, nimbler aircraft such as the F-35 from Lockheed Martin, or the Tejas Mk1A from India or France's Rafale.

Indeed, the stark difference in cost allows for interesting comparisons. The drastic difference in cost allows for interesting comparisons. With the B-2's price, you could buy 18 F-35s, 29 Tejas Mk1As, or 20 Rafales, which are all advanced fighter jets with their own unique specialties.

In conclusion, the B-2 bomber is a testament to the advancements in aviation technology and engineering. However, its incredibly high price tag poses a significant disadvantage, especially with increasingly financially capable competitors and adversaries. Hence, while the B-2 may be a formidable weapon, it might not be the most cost-effective option for many countries, including India, when considering the vast needs of its armed forces.

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