The Rockwell B-1 Lancer (nicknamed 'Bone' by its pilots, from 'B-One') forms part of the triad of currently active USAF strategic bombers, complementing the venerable B-52 as well as the more modern, stealth B-2. The B-1 had a long and troubled history which dates back to the 1960s. It was originally stated to replace the B-52 as a supersonic low-level penetration nuclear bomber, but the project was cancelled by the Jimmy Carter administration in 1977 with financial priority given to the development of cruise missiles instead. Nevertheless, the Reagan-era build up would see the B-1 resurrected in a slightly modified form given delays in the development of the B-2, and finally entered service in the later half of the 1980s, with the entire production run of 100 aircraft put in service in a span of just two years. Overall, the B-1 is an extremely advanced aircraft equipped with modern avionics including a radar derived from that of the F-16, radar-absorbing materials (although still far from being truly stealth), an airframe built with aluminium alloys and titanium, and the heaviest payload by any warplane currently in service carried on three internal bays with rotary launchers plus under-fuselage hardpoints. Its majestic, swan-like profile is recognizable by its variable-geometry wings, which allows the use of shorter airstrips when extended, and optimizes performance for low-altitude performance when swept. Small canard vanes are also installed in the front. The end of the Cold War quickly made the B-1 obsolete in its main role as a nuclear bomber, consequently it was re-adapted to a conventional bomber role and has seen action in nearly every US conflict since including against Iraq (in both 1998 and 2003), Kosovo, Afghanistan, Libya, and Syria. Ironically, it was not used during the 1991 Gulf War since it was felt that crews were not sufficiently trained for conventional warfare at the time. Armed with the latest targeting pods, the B-1 can carry a variety US precision-weaponry including JDAMs as well as stand-off missiles which will keep it as a potent addition to the bomber arsenal for the foreseeable future until replaced by the B-21 Raider.

The first B-1A prototype flew on 23 December 1974 before being cancelled less than three years later. Its successor, the B-1B, had its maiden flight on 18 October 1984 and entered service with the Strategic Air Command shortly after. No other variants have been built but the bomber has been slowly upgraded with newer avionics and the capability to be equipped with more advanced weapons, a testament to its current role as a conventional rather than a nuclear bomber.