USAF Releases Inflight Photos

The Air Force is releasing dramatic inflight pix of the new B-21 Raider, now undergoing flight test. 

Following its formal unveiling, Dec. 2, 2022, the B-21 Raider began flight testing at Edwards Air Force Base where it continues to make progress toward becoming the backbone of the U.S. Air Force bomber fleet. 

The B-21 Raider was designed as a dual-capable penetrating strike stealth bomber capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions (when you care enough to send the very best...). The B-21 will eventually form the backbone of the future Air Force bomber force consisting of B-21s and B-52s (the same type of bird as those Grandpa used to fly). Designed to operate in tomorrow’s high-end threat environment, the B-21 will, hopefully, play a critical role in ensuring America’s enduring airpower capability.

During testimony at the Senate Armed Services Committee, Andrew Hunter, assistant secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics, highlighted B-21 flight testing is on track to meet timelines and deliver to the warfighter May 8. 

“We are in the flight test program, the flight test program is proceeding well,” Hunter said in response to a question about the B-21 program. “It is doing what flight test programs are designed to do, which is helping us learn about the unique characteristics of this platform, but in a very, very effective way.” 

The B-21 Raider is named in honor of the historic Doolittle Raiders, U.S. Army Air Force men who are known for their surprise attack against Japan during World War II on April 18, 1942, which forced the Japanese to recall combat forces for home defense, and boosted morale among Americans and U.S. allies abroad. The designation B-21 recognizes the Raider as the first bomber of the 21st century.

FMI: www.af.mil