On December 2, 2022, The US Air Force unveiled the world’s first 6th generation aircraft B-21 Raider. This next generation strategic bomber will replace the aging B-1 and B-2 aircrafts. It will be used to perform a wide range of both conventional and nuclear missions.
Who developed B-21 Raider?
It was developed by Northrop Grumman. It took seven years from the contract award to the public rollout of the aircraft.
Why ‘Raider’?
The name “Raider” is intended to evoke the bravery and spirit of the WW II Doolittle Raiders who conducted an air raid on the Japanese capital Tokyo and other Japanese cities on April 18, 1942. It was the first American air mission to strike the Japanese archipelago.
Cost of B-21 Raider
The average per-unit cost of the B-21 is now $692 million (2023 dollars). However, since the B-21 is very classified, nearly all budget figures for the aircraft are hidden.
The US Airforce plans to purchase at least 100 B-21 Rider aircraft.
Read more: INSIDE THE US SECRET HYPERSONIC BOMBER: PROJECT MAYHEM
Key features of B-21 Raider
Subsonic speed
The aircraft will have subsonic speed, meaning its maximum speed will be lower than the speed of sound (under 767 mph).
Crew
The aircraft is operated by a crew of 2. It will also be capable of being piloted remotely. However, the unmanned operation will be possible several years after initial operational capability (IOC)
Engines
B-21 Raider is powered by Pratt & Whitney’s engines. It may be a variant of the F135 engine which is considered to be the safest and most capable military jet engine in operation.
Range
B-21 Raider’s estimated range is projected to exceed 6,000 miles, which enables it to conduct both conventional and nuclear strikes.
Payload
The payload capacity of B-21 is at least 30,000lb. The Raider will also be armed with long-range stealth missiles like joint air-to-surface stand-off missiles (JASSM).
Digital bomber
The Raider’s AI-powered software allows it to autonomously control the flight system, weapons system, and various other systems.
B-21 Raider uses cloud computing
The B-21 will employ cloud technologies to enhance communication and data sharing between aircraft components and other military systems.
Stealthy design
B-21 is designed to be highly stealthy. It has a flying wing configuration, similar to that of the B-2 Spirit, with a low radar cross-section and features that reduce its visibility to infrared, acoustic, and other sensors.
Open architecture
The B-21 Raider is based on open architecture, meaning its design is flexible, modular, and adaptable, making it easier to upgrade and modify over time.
In conclusion, developing the World’s first 6th generation aircraft B-21 Raider is a significant development in US strategic deterrence strategy which will help the country to ensure its future air dominance.
First flight
Northrop Grumman plans to perform extensive ground testing on the B-21 Raider before its first flight to Edwards Air Force Base in California, anticipated this year. The bomber will then undergo official flight tests. The Nuclear qualification will take two years or so after initial operational capability.
