AFGSC expands B-1 pilot training through new aviation initiative

7th Bomb Wing:

"DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas — Air Force Global Strike Command launched a new B-1B Lancer pilot training initiative in Abilene, Texas, during the first week of November 2026.

Designed to provide B-1 pilots additional flying experience while preserving bomber training opportunities for mission-specific requirements, the Bomber Supplemental Trainer for Aircrew Readiness, or BSTAR, initiative uses contractor-operated light business jets to help pilots build foundational airmanship outside the B-1 fleet.

The program reached its first training milestone Nov. 2, when a Dyess B-1 pilot completed the inaugural military training flight. Two days later, U.S. Air Force Gen. S.L. Davis, commander of Air Force Global Strike Command, and U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Ty Neuman, Eighth Air Force and Joint-Global Strike Operations Center commander, participated in observer flights to evaluate the new capability firsthand.

For the B-1 community, the initiative provides additional opportunities to develop foundational flying skills while maintaining the specialized training required to execute the bomber's combat mission.

“Combat-ready aircrews are built on foundational airmanship, sound decision-making and time in the air,” Davis said. “We expect BSTAR’s innovative approach will allow us to better develop and experience our pilots by providing additional flying opportunities that complement the specialized training they receive in the B-1 at a much lower cost”

BSTAR flights emphasize fundamental aviation skills, including instrument procedures, mission planning, aircraft handling and crew resource management. The supplemental training allows pilots to gain experience in a live aviation environment while continuing to complete the specialized training required to operate the B-1.

The initiative uses a contractor-owned, contractor-operated model, with XSTAR Aviation providing the aircraft, instructor pilots, maintenance and scheduling. Flights operate from Abilene Regional Airport and do not require additional B-1 aircraft or military maintenance personnel.

The prototype is expected to provide approximately 100 additional flying hours per pilot each year, offering them more opportunities to practice foundational flying skills outside the B-1 fleet.

BSTAR complements, rather than replaces, existing B-1 training by providing additional flying hours in a companion trainer. These flights do not substitute for B-1 sorties or reduce the requirement for bomber aircraft availability. B-1 sorties remain essential for developing proficiency in mission-specific tasks, including aerial refueling, tactical employment and weapons delivery.

“Our B-1 aircrews must be prepared to execute complex missions that demand precision, discipline and sound judgment,” said Neuman. “BSTAR increases airmanship, which translates to safer, more effective and lethal B-1 operators, while preserving B-1 flight hours for our specialized, mission-specific training.”

While flight simulators remain essential for practicing complex systems and mission scenarios, live flying provides experience navigating changing weather conditions, air traffic and real-time decisions in the cockpit.

For one B-1 pilot, the inaugural military training flight provided an opportunity to practice foundational skills that carry over to the B-1.

“Flying in different conditions, working through instrument procedures and making decisions in real time reinforces skills we rely on as pilots,” the B-1 pilot said. “Having another way to develop that foundation helps make the most of our training in the B-1.”

For U.S. Air Force Col. Robert Sturgill, 7th Bomb Wing and installation commander, the value of BSTAR comes down to giving his pilots more opportunities to fly.

“I want our pilots flying as much as possible,” Sturgill said. “Every additional hour they spend in the air builds experience they bring back to the B-1. BSTAR gives us that opportunity without taking away from the training they need in the bomber.”

Throughout the prototype period, sorties will be tracked and debriefed, with aircrew feedback used to refine flight profiles and evaluate training effectiveness. Findings will help AFGSC determine whether supplemental flight training can play a broader role in developing combat-ready B-1 aircrews."