The B-21 Raider nuclear bomber is able to begin full flight testing at Edwards Air Force Base, US Air Force base

Last week, the US Air Force was finally able to get the B-21 Raider nuclear bomber into the sky for the first time. The sixth-generation aircraft is ready for full flight tests.

Here's What We Know

The B-21 Raider flew from the Northrop Grumman factory to the US Air Force base Edwards. Both facilities are located on the territory of California. It is at the base that the main flight tests of the nuclear bomber, which will be the replacement for the B-2 Spirit, will take place.

During its first flight, the sixth-generation aircraft was in the air for more than an hour. The B-21 Raider is already capable of beginning full flight tests. This was announced by the US Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall.

The official is cautiously optimistic about the B-21 Raider. Despite some minor missteps, the programme has largely followed the plan that was published during the presidency of Barack Obama.

Northrop Grumman is building five more B-21 Raider test models. They, too, will go to Edwards Base, but it's currently unknown when that will happen. And the company wants a low-rate initial production contract by the end of 2023.

Source: Defence News