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Find out what the new bomber is hiding.
The U.S. Air Force has confirmed that the Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider heavy strategic bomber has begun ground testing in Palmdale, California. These secret tests indicate that the first flight of the stealth aircraft is scheduled for the end of this year.
Following the publication of images of the B-21 during ground-based engine testing last month, confirmation of the tests on the ground followed a slew of rumors on social media and the publication of images of dubious authenticity. Then, on October 25, a representative of the US Air Force confirmed to Aviation Week magazine the start of testing, similar confirmations were received from other defense news agencies.
"I can confirm that the B-21 is conducting ground taxi operations," the spokesman said. "Thorough testing is a critical stage in the B-21 flight test program. Extensive testing allows you to evaluate systems, components, and functionality. These tests allow us to reduce risks, optimize design, and increase operational efficiency."
The Air Force plans to purchase at least 100 such bombers, and the first of them should enter service by 2027. The B-21 is designed to strengthen the existing fleet consisting of B-1B Lancer, B-2 Spirit and B-52J Stratofortress and replace them sometime in the 2050s.
The U.S. Air Force has confirmed that the Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider heavy strategic bomber has begun ground testing in Palmdale, California. These secret tests indicate that the first flight of the stealth aircraft is scheduled for the end of this year.
Following the publication of images of the B-21 during ground-based engine testing last month, confirmation of the tests on the ground followed a slew of rumors on social media and the publication of images of dubious authenticity. Then, on October 25, a representative of the US Air Force confirmed to Aviation Week magazine the start of testing, similar confirmations were received from other defense news agencies.
"I can confirm that the B-21 is conducting ground taxi operations," the spokesman said. "Thorough testing is a critical stage in the B-21 flight test program. Extensive testing allows you to evaluate systems, components, and functionality. These tests allow us to reduce risks, optimize design, and increase operational efficiency."
The Air Force plans to purchase at least 100 such bombers, and the first of them should enter service by 2027. The B-21 is designed to strengthen the existing fleet consisting of B-1B Lancer, B-2 Spirit and B-52J Stratofortress and replace them sometime in the 2050s.