Metaphorically, an Ugly Duckling. The B-1 had a troubled childhood, but has blossomed into a fine adult. The B-1A with its troubled variable intakes, complex EW suite, and near suicidal mission profile, was canned by Jimmy Who. Resurrected by Ronald Reagan, but in a much modified form, the aircraft has grown to be a useful work horse. recent approval to drop iron bombs will allow the aircraft to live out an extended life as a tactical weapon. In 2001, the fleet received its first notice of withdrawal as some 30 aircraft are to be sent to the reserve at Davis-Monthan.