B-21 Raider Bomber

Defense Systems Full Specifications

B-21 Raider Bomber: Sixth-Generation Stealth Strike

The B-21 Raider is the U.S. Air Force’s next-generation long-range stealth bomber, designed to deliver conventional and nuclear weapons against heavily defended targets. It is intended to become the backbone of the future bomber fleet alongside the B-52H Stratofortress, while replacing the B-1B Lancer and B-2 Spirit over time.

The aircraft uses a flying-wing configuration and incorporates advanced low-observable technology, digital systems, networking, and an open systems architecture. The design is intended to support future upgrades as threats and mission requirements change.

Manufacturer

Northrop Grumman is the prime contractor, selected in October 2015. The company builds the flying-wing aircraft at Plant 42 in Palmdale, California, incorporating lessons from the B-2 Spirit and modern digital engineering. Pratt & Whitney supplies the engines. The Air Force plans to acquire at least 100 aircraft, with discussions of higher numbers to expand the stealth bomber fleet.

Speed and Range

The B-21 is a high-subsonic aircraft, with estimated maximum speeds in the Mach 0.8+ range (roughly 600–650 mph / 965–1,050 km/h at altitude). Exact figures remain classified. Unrefueled range is intercontinental, estimated in the 6,000+ nautical mile class, supported by efficient engines that reduce tanker dependence compared with legacy bombers. Service ceiling is approximately 50,000 ft (15,000 m). Aerial refueling extends global reach.

Cost and Price

Average procurement unit cost is targeted at $550 million in base-year 2010 dollars, equivalent to roughly $690–700 million in recent dollars. This is substantially lower than the B-2’s unit cost and supports a larger planned fleet. Total program cost, including development, procurement of 100 aircraft, and 30 years of operations, has been estimated around $203 billion.

The B-21 features advanced all-aspect low-observable design, internal weapons bays with an estimated payload capacity of 20,000–30,000 lb, dual-capable nuclear and conventional armament (including B61-12 and AGM-181 LRSO), a two-person crew (with optional unmanned capability), and systems supporting intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and potential control of collaborative combat aircraft. It is intended to complement and eventually replace the B-1 and B-2 while working alongside the modernized B-52.

Operational Role

The Raider is designed for conventional precision strike, nuclear deterrence, intelligence and electronic warfare support, and integration with a wider family of systems. The Air Force announced in July 2026 that the operational aircraft will use a two-pilot crew.ible deterrence and global reach in an era of renewed great-power competition.