Description

This is the B-87, a twin-jet, long-range strategic bomber developed as a direct derivative of the B-85. Its primary mission is strategic strike: to neutralize enemy vital points and deliver stand-off attacks using carried missiles from safe distances. The aircraft retains the Alastair name of its predecessor and is designated B-87 Alastair II. In short: the B-87 is a jet-powered strategic bomber—an evolution of the earlier model designed for long-range, heavy-strike operations.

Designed to meet the exacting demands of strategic bombing, the B-87's principal dimensions are a wingspan of 67.5 m, a length of 61 m, and a height of 12.3 m. Its approximate empty/operational weight is 53,000 kg with a payload capacity of 24,000 kg. To support this substantial mass and ensure mission effectiveness, the aircraft is powered by large NMA-778TF turbofan engines. It achieves a maximum speed of 1,280 km/h and a cruise speed of about 800 km/h, with an operational service ceiling near 15,000 m above sea level. Its unrefueled ferry range is approximately 12,000 km. On paper these figures present a highly capable platform; realistically, operational performance may be reduced (commonly by around 10% or more) when accounting for mission loads, environmental conditions, and survivability equipment.

Beyond its core role as a long-range strategic bomber, the B-87 serves as a versatile mission platform. Depending on configuration and variant, it can function as a missile truck, airborne early warning platform, maritime patrol aircraft, anti-submarine warfare asset, and high-endurance reconnaissance platform. Ongoing upgrades and modular variants address evolving threats—such as advanced surface-to-air missile systems and beyond-visual-range (BVR) interceptors—by incorporating improved electronic warfare suites, RCS reducer coating, and stand-off countermeasures. The airframe’s adaptability ensures the B-87 family remains relevant as doctrine and adversary capabilities evolve.

The B-87 Alastair II is a capable heavy-strike platform on paper: long range, large payload, and modular mission potential make it well suited for stand-off strategic strikes, maritime presence, and long-endurance ISR. In practice, its value depends on integration — stand-off weapons, advanced electronic warfare and decoy suites, in-flight refuelling, and hardened logistics are prerequisites for it to survive against modern SAM nets and BVR interception. Without those systems and a clear doctrine (escorts or suppression-of-enemy-air-defenses packages), the B-87’s size and payload become liabilities rather than advantages. To remain relevant over time, prioritize modular avionics and payload bays, a robust upgrade pathway for EW/stealth measures, and operational concepts that exploit its range and payload while minimizing exposure to high-threat airspace.

Overview

Name : BlackNoch-Directive B-87 ‘Alastair II’
Place Origin : ADN
Type : Long-Range Strategic-Bomber/Heavy Bomber
In Service : 1981
Designed : 1976
Operator : BGC and ADN
Manufacturers : BGC, NMA and ADN
Designer : BGC, NMA and ADN
Number Built : probably over 42+ units

Specification

Mass : 53,205kg
Wingspan : 67.5m
Length : 61m
Height : 12.3m
Crew : 12
Powerplant : NMA-778TF
Maximum Speed : 1280/h
CruiseSpeed : 800km/h
Operational Range : 12,000km
Operational Ceiling : 15,000m

Armaments

• Internal: 500lbs bomb (56x) & AND Kh-25(6x)
• Hardpoints: 0 (Can be placed)

Quote

"Sorry, i coudln't hear you over my internal monologue"
— Who else if it's not me —

Gallery

Nice

Random Image

Altair