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.