A B-1 bomber assigned to the 28th Bomb Wing at Ellsworth, S.D., crashed on Monday near Broadus, Mont., during a routine training mission, announced the wing. All four crewmembers—two pilots, two weapon systems operators—safely ejected with some injuries, states the wing’s release. “We are actively working to ensure the safety of the crew members and have sent first responders to secure the scene and work closely with local authorities at the crash site,” said Col. Kevin Kennedy, 28th BW commander. “Right now, all of our thoughts and prayers are with the crews and their families,” he said. The wing said it would release more information as it becomes available.
The second version of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft should have more capability than the first but mustn't be an "exquisite" and expensive platform that would defeat the notion of "affordable mass," outgoing Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall said.