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US Air Force Reveals Second, Third B-21 Raider Bases

The B-21 Raider during its most recent flight test. Photo: US Air Force

The US Air Force has approved Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri and Dyess Air Force Base in Texas as its second and third bases for B-21 Raider bombers.

The service aims to acquire around 100 of the nuclear and conventionally capable stealth B-21s for their long-range strike and nuclear deterrence capabilities.

“We continue to achieve B-21 production milestones; through digital engineering and open architecture design, we are getting an agile strategic deterrent that delivers a decisive response as required,” said Air Force Global Strike Command commander Gen. Thomas Bussiere.

The aircraft is currently in low-rate production and undergoing flight tests, with delivery expected by 2027.

Ellsworth AFB in South Dakota was the first location to be selected to host the B-21.

B-21 Raider Progress

In May 2024, B-21 manufacturer Northrop Grumman announced that the flight test program was a success, with observations of how the warplane’s performance closely resembled digital simulations.

The world’s first sixth-generation aircraft has stealth features that can evade “even the most sophisticated air defense systems,” while its open system architecture allows for the integration of newer technology.

“The B-21 Raider is the first strategic bomber in more than three decades. It is a testament to America’s enduring advantages in ingenuity and innovation,” US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated during the 2022 unveiling ceremony at Northrop Grumman’s facility in Palmdale, California.

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