America’s new stealth nuclear bomber, the B-21 Raider, has been officially unveiled for the first time. Here are its characteristics
By: VirgilioNews | Posted on: 03-12-2022 12:10
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Technology continues to make great advances in warfare. The United States Air Force introduced the new nuclear stealth bomberthe B-21 fighter, which is reminiscent of the design of the previous model B-2 Spirit, which already looked like an airplane from a science fiction film in the 80s. It is the first new combat aircraft in more than thirty years, since the end of the Cold War.
The characteristics of the B-21 Raider
On December 2, the B-21 Raider, the stealth bomber that will replenish the American fleet, was unveiled to the public. The aircraft will play an important role in supporting the objectives of National security and in ensuring the protection of U.S. allies and partners around the world.
According to the design requirements, the B-21 is an extremely durable long-range stealth bomber that can be equipped with conventional and nuclear ammunition. It is also equipped with systems that make it practical invisible and undetectable by radar.
Today is the big day! Join us live on the Air Force Facebook page at https://t.co/94SwgcBm3e at 8pm EST as we unveil our newest bomber – the B-21 Raider! pic.twitter.com/VeXxZLdsMe
— US Air Force (@usairforce) December 2, 2022
The target of the B-21 Raider
The main objective of the B-21 Raider is to reinforce the deterrent system, or the set of strategies aimed at discouraging aggression by rival states. Its development, the phases of which are largely top secret, is the Pentagon’s answer to calls for more protection against a possible conflict with China.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin said during the fighter’s unveiling ceremony that the B-21 Raider “is a testament to the Department’s long-term commitment to advanced solutions that will strengthen America’s ability to deliver.” prevent aggressiontoday and in the future”.
.@SecDef: [The @USAirForce’s B-21 Raider is] Evidence of the Department’s long-term commitment to building advanced capabilities that will strengthen America’s ability to deter aggression now and in the future. pic.twitter.com/93ahmw90Ar
— Department of Defense 🇺🇸 (@DeptofDefense) December 3, 2022
The cost of a single B-21 Raider bomber
According to the US Air Force, the deadly aircraft has a price of $692 million. Air Force officials expect a final fleet of at least 100 aircraft.
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Officials placed an emphasis on cost containment while maintaining maximum flexibility and effectiveness.
When and where will the B-21 Raider enter service
The aircraft, unveiled on December 2nd, is one of six aircraft currently in production. The exact date when the fighter will enter service has not yet been decided, but the military bases that will receive the stealth bomber first have been announced, namely:
- Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota;
- Whiteman AFB, Missouri;
- Dye AFB, Texas.
The B-21 Raider will replace the B-2 Spirit, which was first introduced in November 1988 and manufactured by the same company, Northrop Grumman.
Photo source: US Air Force Twitter