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 Air Force and Boeing agreed to a nearly $2.4 billion contract for a new lot of KC-46 aerial tankers on Nov. 21. The deal, announced by the Pentagon, is for 15 new aircraft in Lot 11 at a cost of $2.389 billion—some $159 million per tail.