Executing Nuclear Operations and Global Strike...Anytime, Anywhere! The 509th Bomb Wing, located at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, is one of only two Air Force units to operate the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber. The unit can launch combat sorties directly from Missouri to any spot on the globe, engaging adversaries with large payloads of traditional or precision-guided munitions. | Military Metal Art

On February 23, 2008, a U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, named Spirit of Kansas (tail number 89-0127), crashed shortly after takeoff from Andersen Air Force Base in Guam. This marked the first operational loss of a B-2 bomber and one of the most expensive aircraft accidents, costing an estimated $1.4 billion. **Accident Details** The bomber was part of the 393rd Bomb Squadron, 509th Bomb Wing, based at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. It was completing a four-month deployment suppor