The Hidden Secrets of the B-2: The World’s Deadliest Stealth Bomber

Flying the B-2 is a rare privilege. Each pilot who takes the controls receives a special designation—a "Spirit Number" from Northrop Grumman, the company that designed the aircraft. These numbers are assigned in sequence. One pilot proudly stated, “I was the 602nd person to fly the B-2.” Considering the aircraft has been operational since 1997, this number highlights just how selective and exclusive the B-2 pilot community is. Very few people on Earth have had the honor of flying the Spirit.