B‑21 Raider pushes limits: New era for U.S. air power
Republican Congressman Don Bacon from Nebraska, a former Air Force brigadier general, stated that the B-21 Raider program is progressing ahead of schedule and remains within budget, according to Bulgarian Military. He emphasized that this development will significantly advance the U.S. Air Force for decades.
The B-21 Raider, developed by Northrop Grumman, is expected to cost $203 billion over 30 years. The bomber is set to replace older models like the B-1 Lancer and the B-2 Spirit and become a key component of the U.S. Air Force. However, the Bulgarian Military service notes that President Donald Trump is considering defense budget cuts, which could impact the future of the B-21 program. Although there are no specific proposals, potential financial constraints are considered challenging for the production pace.
B-21 Raider - America's bomber of the future
The B-21 Raider is the latest American strategic bomber developed by Northrop Grumman for the United States Air Force. It is the first sixth-generation bomber designed to penetrate the most advanced air defense systems and conduct precision strikes worldwide. The aircraft was officially unveiled in Palmdale, California, on December 2, 2022, and its first flight occurred on November 10, 2023.
The B-21 Raider features advanced stealth technology that minimizes its detectability by enemy radars. Although many technical details remain classified, it is known that the bomber will be capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear weapons. Its planned arsenal includes long-range AGM-181 LRSO (Long-Range Stand-Off) cruise missiles with nuclear warheads, developed by Raytheon Missiles & Defense.
The aircraft's open systems architecture easily integrates future technologies and weaponry, ensuring that the B-21 Raider can evolve in response to changing threats and battlefield requirements. At least 100 units of this bomber are planned for service, forming the backbone of American bombing forces alongside the modernized B-52.
The first B-21 units are expected to arrive at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota by the late 2020s. The program is crucial for maintaining U.S. air superiority, especially given growing threats from China and Russia. Despite budgetary challenges, optimism surrounding the B-21 remains high. Republican Congressman Don Bacon emphasizes that the program has the potential to revolutionize American air forces, provided the current pace of work can be maintained.
