Northrop Grumman launches new generation B-21 Raider nuclear bomber for the first time and is one step closer to first flight
Northrop Grumman continues to work on the next-generation B-21 Raider nuclear bomber. The company recently launched a strategic aircraft for the first time.
The test took place in the second quarter of 2023. This was announced the day before by Kathy Warden, CEO of Northrop Grumman. She also confirmed that the company will not apply for the role of general contractor in the NGAD project to develop a sixth-generation fighter.
The B-21 Raider was unveiled in early December 2022 at the Northrop Grumman plant in Palmdale, California. The CEO of the company called the recent test another important milestone on the way to the first flight and the launch of production.
Northrop Grumman signed a contract to develop the B-21 Raider in 2015. The company plans to make the first flight of a nuclear bomber by the end of this year, but this is not the main goal.
Northrop currently has six aircraft at various stages of production. The first test bomber will be designated T1. The US Air Force intends to order approximately 100 B-21 Raider aircraft. They will replace 20 B-2 Spirit stealth bombers and 43 conventional B-1B Lancers, which are not nuclear-capable.
At least until the middle of this century, the B-21 Raider will fly alongside the B-52H Stratofortress. Boeing is modernizing its airplanes. The US Air Force currently has 72 B-52H bombers in service. After modernization, they will be designated B-52J.
