Alternative Procurement Programs for the B-2 Bomber: Effects on Capability ad Costs

Abstract : This memorandum analyzes the costs and the effects of the Administration's program to buy 132 B-2 bombers as well as alternatives that buy 66 planes, 33 planes, or no planes at all. The memorandum also considers various rates of annual procurement. CBO estimates that the Administration's program to buy 132 B-2 bombers will cost a total of about $75 billion in 1991 prices. In the year of maximum funding, annual costs for the B-2 program would be about $9 billion. Total costs could rise if various factors that the Administration expects will hold down costs do not work out as planned.