Which Boeing bomber is known as the “Spirit”?

The Boeing-associated bomber known as the “Spirit” is the B-2 Spirit.

The B-2 Spirit is a United States stealth bomber developed by Northrop, with Boeing as a major partner responsible for important structures, systems, and assembly work. Its flying-wing shape and radar-absorbent materials were designed to reduce detectability.

The B-2 made its first flight in 1989 and entered operational service with the United States Air Force in 1997. It can carry conventional and nuclear weapons and was designed for penetrating long-range missions.

The aircraft is often called the Boeing B-2 because of Boeing’s major industrial role, but its formal manufacturer designation is Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit. That distinction matters: Boeing was a principal partner, not the prime contractor. The B-1 is known as the Lancer, while the B-52 is the Stratofortress.