B-21 Raider: The Stealth Bomber Set to Become the Backbone of the US Air Force

The United States is currently testing the B-21 Raider, a next-generation stealth bomber designed to bypass the world's most advanced air defense systems. The aircraft is capable of executing long-range precision strikes without stopping, carrying both conventional and nuclear payloads. Notably, the B-21 is more fuel-efficient than its predecessor, the B-2 Spirit, allowing for longer mission endurance and reduced support needs.

To accelerate its deployment, the US Air Force expanded its contract with Northrop Grumman to boost production by 25%, funded by $4.5 billion under the 2025 fiscal budget. The operational fleet, targeted at a minimum of 100 bombers, is expected to be stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base by 2027, eventually replacing the aging B-1 Lancer and B-2 Spirit fleets.