Northrop Grumman Secures approval for B-21 Stealth Bomber Manufacturing

Northrop Grumman has secured approval to commence low-rate production of the highly anticipated B-21 Raider stealth bomber. Following its maiden flight in November 2023, the successful test paved the way for Northrop Grumman to secure a low-rate initial production (LRIP) contract from the Air Force, marking a significant milestone in the development of the B-21 Raider.

Defense Undersecretary for Acquisition and Sustainment William LaPlante confirmed the progress, stating that the “production of the B-21 ‘Raider’ is moving forward.” However, the statement did not provide specific details regarding the contract’s value, production timeline, or the number of aircraft ordered.

Northrop Grumman is scheduled to discuss further details during its 2023 fourth-quarter results call on January 25th. As production gains momentum, the B-21 Raider is expected to be in active service by 2026, gradually replacing the aging B-2 Spirit and B-1 Lancer strategic bombers. These bombers have played pivotal roles in the USAF’s long-range strike capabilities for decades.

The USAF envisions a two-bomber fleet, featuring the B-21 Raider and the B-52 Stratofortress, currently undergoing a modernization campaign. With an order for 100 B-21 Raiders, this exceeds the combined number of B-1s and B-2s currently in operation, showcasing the Air Force’s commitment to enhancing its strategic capabilities and defense arsenal.

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