The United States announced it was spending nearly USD 10 billion to upgrade the fleet of B-2 stealth bombers over the next several years.

“The US military will upgrade the aircraft’s communications, avionics and other systems and the Air Force plans to keep the bomber in service at least until 2058,” the Kansas City Star said.

“I think the aircraft should be able to fly until 2058,” said retired Col. Mel Deaile, who piloted the B-2 in combat missions over Afghanistan.

“Its role will have to evolve, as well as the munitions it delivers will have to evolve, as threats evolve,” he added.

Northrop Grumman Corporation (NGC) is the maker of the bomber that is one of the world's most advanced aircraft.

The aircraft can deliver a wide range of bombs that can be satellite-guided to dozens of targets, avoiding the carpet-bombing technique and reducing collateral damage.

The B-2 was the first American plane to enter Afghanistan airspace in October 2001, following the 9/11 attacks. Since then, it has been deployed in Iraq and Libya.

The US military has already invested more than USD 40 billion in the B-2.