What makes the b-2 bomber fly so well?

Answer 1

The flying wing is an aerodynamic shape, but it is inherently unstable. Consequently the B-2 is flown by the use of computer which assist the pilot (who uses "fly-by-wire" electronic and servo control technology rather than traditional control cables or hydraulics).

Without computer tech, the B-2 ain't flying.

Well... the flying wing design itself is NOT inherently unstable, and does not require computer controls to remain stable. There were several flying wing designs built and flown during the 1940s, well before computer controls were available.

The B-2's design does seem to warrant computer adjustments, however, most likely due to the additional aerodynamic challenges that the stealth design placed on the airframe. That is, in order to design the airframe for maximum stealth, aerodynamic compromises had to be made, which resulted in a plane not inherently stable, and thus, requiring computer assisted flight controls.

However, one of the advantages of the flying wing design is a very high lifting force relative to overall size and weight; thus, the B-2 has a wing load of about half that of a B-52, which means that is can be considerably more maneuverable.