The B-2A is the most recently developed United States strategic bomber. While earlier bombers were designed to survive in hostile airspace through speed, altitude or defensive armament, the B-2 survives by being invisible.

Development of the B-2 began in the early 1980s to provide the United States Air Force with a new bomber to replace its ageing B-52s.

It’s designers used stealth technology to make a bomber that would be as invisible to detection as possible, resulting in its unique shape.

The first B-2 flew on 17 July 1989 and they began entering service in December 1993.

However their great expense (about $1 billion each) means that only 21 were made.

They will remain in service for decades to come.

This model represents the first B-2 at the time of its first flight, 17 July 1989

Testors 1/72 kit completed by Leigh Edmonds in October 2004.