The Long Road to First Flight

Northrop-Grumman and the United States Air Force have commenced taxi testing of the B-21 Raider—the United States’ newest and most technologically-advanced, combat-capable stealth-bomber. In addition to conceding the bomber “is conducting ground taxi activities,” a USAF spokesperson set forth: “Rigorous testing is a critical step in the B-21 flight test program. Extensive testing evaluates systems, components, and functionalities. This testing allows us to mitigate risks, optimize design, and enhance operational effectiveness.” The most recent photos of the first B-21 depict the aircraft outside its hangar at Northrop Grumman’s facility at Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale, Calif