The B-2 Spirit bomber is one of the most expensive and advanced aircraft in the world, as it costs about $2.2 billion and is designed for stealth missions. Its smooth edges, radar-absorbing skin, and batwing design help it stay invisible to enemy radars.
But if you look closely, there’s one surprising detail. Unlike the rest of the aircraft, the B-2’s wheels are painted bright white. For a jet built to hide in the shadows, this looks unusual.
The Real Danger: Heat, Not Just Enemy Missiles
Most people think enemy radars and missiles are the B-2’s biggest threats, but one of the biggest challenges actually comes from heat during landing and takeoff, as the B-2 is massive, with a wingspan of 170 feet and a weight of over 170,000 pounds.
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When it lands at speeds of 150–180 mph, the brakes absorb a huge amount of energy. Temperatures can rise above 1,000°F, which can damage the tires or even cause fires.
Why White Paint? A Simple Physics Lesson
The answer lies in basic science. Black surfaces absorb more heat, while white surfaces reflect it, and by painting the B-2’s wheels white, engineers created a natural heat shield, and this idea prevents the wheels from heating up too fast from the sun or hot runways.
The idea is similar to wearing white clothes in summer to stay cool. In this case, the “clothes” protect a $2 billion bomber from damage.
Tire Safety: Stopping Blowouts
Overheating doesn’t just wear down tires. It can also cause tire blowouts, which could be dangerous for the aircraft. Each of the B-2’s 16 tires costs tens of thousands of dollars and is specially made for stealth missions.
By keeping the wheels cooler with white paint, engineers reduce the risk of explosions. A small detail like this prevents costly accidents and keeps the aircraft safe for missions.
Easier Maintenance and Quick Checks
White wheels also make maintenance faster and easier. After every landing, crews inspect the aircraft for cracks, leaks, or burn marks. On black wheels, these signs are hard to see.
But on white-painted wheels, even small problems are easy to spot. This saves time, which is critical when the bomber might need to take off again in just a few hours.
Long Tradition in Aviation
The B-2 isn’t the only aircraft with white wheels. The US Air Force has used this trick for decades on fighters, tankers, and even commercial jets. While it may seem like a small detail, it’s a proven safety method that works.
But since the B-2 is so secretive, people rarely notice this simple yet effective design choice.
