U.S. Air Force Accelerates Production of B-21 Raider Stealth Bomber
PALMDALE, Calif. (AP) — The United States Air Force is moving forward with increased production of the B-21 Raider, its next-generation stealth bomber, as the program progresses through testing and early manufacturing, Northrop Grumman announced Tuesday. The acceleration reflects a strategic push to modernize the nation’s long-range strike capabilities amid evolving global security challenges.
Final assembly of the B-21 is underway at Northrop Grumman’s facility in Palmdale, California, with the first operational aircraft slated to be deployed to Ellsworth Air Force Base in 2027.
The B-21 Raider, named in honor of the daring Doolittle Raid of World War II, is designed to be a sixth-generation stealth bomber capable of penetrating sophisticated air defense systems. It will carry both conventional and nuclear payloads, serving as a key component of the U.S.’s strategic deterrence.
“The strong performance of the B-21 program has our Northrop Grumman and Air Force team ready to accelerate production of this game-changing capability for our nation,” said Kathy Warden, chair, chief executive officer and president of Northrop Grumman. The company has invested over $5 billion in digital engineering and manufacturing infrastructure to facilitate faster production and testing cycles.
According to Northrop Grumman, multiple B-21 aircraft are currently in production and undergoing flight testing. The program expanded its test fleet in 2025, enabling engineers to collect operational data at an increased pace. Testing has reportedly exceeded expectations based on digital modeling.
A key element of the accelerated production is the use of a digital engineering environment, which allows for real-time analysis of aircraft performance data and rapid preparation for subsequent test flights. This streamlined process is expected to translate to quicker operational availability once the bomber is fully deployed.
The B-21’s design incorporates advanced low-observable technologies, aiming to reduce maintenance complexity compared to earlier stealth platforms. Modernized manufacturing processes are also expected to improve readiness and lower long-term sustainment costs.
The program currently involves more than 8,000 personnel across industry and the Air Force, supported by over 400 suppliers in 40 U.S. states. Digital processes have reportedly reduced software certification timelines by approximately 50 percent.
Recent comments from former President Donald Trump referencing an order for 28 updated B-2 bombers have been interpreted by defense analysts as relating to planned procurement of additional B-21 Raiders, rather than upgrades to the existing B-2 Spirit fleet. The Air Force has not publicly confirmed any new B-2 acquisition plans, with the B-21 remaining its primary focus for long-range strike modernization. Northrop Grumman continues to conduct midlife overhauls on the Air Force’s remaining 19 B-2 Spirit bombers as the transition to the B-21 progresses.
The B-21 is intended to operate as part of a broader network of systems, integrating sensors, data networks, and weapons across all branches of the U.S. military. Training, sustainment, and fleet-management systems are being developed concurrently to ensure a smooth transition for crews and maintainers.
