Northrop Grumman has powered on the next-generation B-21 Raider nuclear bomber for the first time and is one step closer to first flight

Northrop Grumman continues to work on the next-generation B-21 Raider nuclear bomber. The company recently powered on the strategic aircraft for the first time.

Here's What We Know

The test took place in the second quarter of 2023. This was announced the day before by Kathy Warden (Kathy Warden), CEO of Northrop Grumman. She also confirmed that the company will not bid for the role of prime contractor in the NGAD project to develop the sixth-generation fighter.

The B-21 Raider was unveiled in early December 2022 at Northrop Grumman's Palmdale, California facility. The company's CEO called the recent test another important milestone on the way to first flight and production launch.

Northrop Grumman contracted to develop the B-21 Raider in 2015. The company plans to make the nuclear bomber's first flight by the end of this year, but that is not the primary goal.

Northrop now has six aircraft in various stages of production. The first test bomber will be designated T1. The US Air Force intends to order approximately 100 B-21 Raider aircraft. They will replace 20 B-2 Spirit stealth bombers and 43 conventional B-1B Lancer bombers, which do not carry nuclear weapons.

The B-21 Raider will fly alongside the B-52H Stratofortress until at least the middle of this century. Boeing is modernising the aircraft. Now the US Air Force has 72 B-52H bombers in service. After modernisation, they will be designated B-52J.

Source: Flight Global