One of the B-2A stealth bombers that recently deployed to Andersen AFB, Guam, experienced a minor engine bay fire on Feb. 26 during a routine engine start as the aircraft prepared for takeoff. The Pacific News Center reported Feb. 28 that the fire was contained in the engine bay and quickly extinguished. No other B-2s on the island were grounded as a result of the incident, according to the newspaper, citing a Pacific Air Forces spokesman. The cause of the fire was under investigation as was the extent of the damage. One individual at the scene was later treated for possible inhalation of fire suppressant. Back in February 2008, a B-2 serving on Guam during a rotational deployment crashed on takeoff and was destroyed. Its crew ejected and survived. (See Back on Guam above)
Lt. Gen. Dan Caine, nominee to be chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told the Senate Armed Services Committee that the Defense Department needs to upgrade its electronic warfare capability and its EW training ranges; just as his predecessor said at his own confirmation hearing.