B-21 Modernization

Abstract

This program is reported in accordance with Title 10, United States Code, Section 119(a)(1) in the Special Access Program Annual Report to Congress. Program overview provided below. The Long Range Strike - Bomber (B-21 Raider) is crucial to the nuclear modernization plan, forming the backbone of the Nation's future bomber force, providing both conventional and nuclear capability. The B-21 platform provides range, access, and payload to go anywhere needed, with the weapons required to deter and win our nation's wars. Its open system architecture will enable rapid integration of future capabilities, keeping the platform relevant and effective as the threat environment evolves. The Air Force requires a minimum of 100 B-21s as part of the long-term bomber force. The Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) contract was awarded in 2015, followed by a Critical Design Review (CDR) completed in 2018. The first test aircraft is executing the B-21 flight test campaign and an approved Milestone C decision with all statutory and regulatory documentation is complete, unlocking the award of the first production lot, awarded in 2023. B-21 aircraft will be delivered to operational bases in the mid-2020s.

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Document Details

Document Type
Project
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2025
Source ID
644044_0604015F_4_3600_PB_2025

Tags

Readers

  • Defense Financial Management and Audit.
  • Enterprise Information Systems Architecture and Joint Command Capability Interoperability Support.
  • Strategic Security Studies

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