Whiteman B-2s in precautionary stand down

Whiteman B-2s in precautionary stand down

Released: 6 Aug 1998

WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. (AFNS) -- The 509th Bomb Wing commander has temporarily suspended peacetime training missions for the B-2 Spirit. This does not impact the 509th Bomb Wing's combat capability.

The suspension is the result of a potential problem associated with initiators that operate the aircrew ejection system. The manufacturer discovered the potential flaw in the initiators during routine acceptance testing.

Each B-2 has eight initiators, and all will be replaced as a safety precaution. Each aircraft will resume peacetime training as soon as replacement parts are installed and inspections are complete.