The U.S. Air Force has reached a key milestone in developing the B-21 Raider stealth bomber, an aircraft expected to play a major role at Ellsworth Air Force Base.
Officials say the B-21 recently completed its first flight with both an operational test pilot and a developmental test pilot onboard—an approach designed to speed up testing while evaluating real-world combat performance earlier in the process.
The aircraft is undergoing testing in California, with expanded efforts now focusing on mission systems and weapons integration following the addition of a second test plane.
Air Force leaders say the B-21 remains a top modernization priority, emphasizing the need to accelerate progress while maintaining high standards. Once operational, the bomber will form a key part of the nation’s future defense strategy.
Ellsworth AFB is slated to become the first operational home for the B-21, making the program’s progress especially significant for the region.
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