B-21 still makes ‘good progress’ towards possible first flight this year
Artist’s impression of the B-21 Raider bomber being developed by Northrop Grumman. (Image: Northrop Grumman)
The USAF says the B-21 Raider bomber — currently in the Engineering and Manufacturing Development phase — is on track for initial deliveries in the mid-2020s.
The B-21 Raider next-generation long-range strike aircraft programme for the USAF is progressing towards a first flight – possibly this year – as well as initial production, backed by a nearly $30 billion commitment in the Pentagon’s spending plan and the confidence of senior leaders.
As a Special Access Program (and a follow-on platform to the B-2 stealth bomber), key details regarding the B-21 are exempt from the usual disclosures required of all big-ticket weapon systems; but DoD officials have outlined recent developments in broad terms.
‘The B-21 is making good progress,’ Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall said
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Will drone motherships form part of tomorrow’s warfare?]()
Will drone motherships form part of tomorrow’s warfare?
While motherships offer multiple operational advantages, the changes in the character of warfare may bring new tactics to the battlefield, reducing their role.
-
![Tactical UAS: mission-driven innovation for a new battlefield era]()
Tactical UAS: mission-driven innovation for a new battlefield era
As global conflicts evolve and the limitations of traditional UAS become clear, Aeronautics is redefining the tactical unmanned aerial systems space with platforms that prioritize survivability, flexibility, and mission effectiveness.
-
![Australian Government looks inwards to drop Chinese-made DJI drones]()
Australian Government looks inwards to drop Chinese-made DJI drones
Over the next decade the Australian Department of Defence (DoD) says it will invest some A$600 million of approved funding into the development and introduction of a range of airborne, surface and subsurface uncrewed systems.
