The US Air Force's sixth-generation fighter, the B-21 Raider, will be rolled out to the public for the first time in December, according to Interesting Engineering. It was in 2015 when the contract for the B-21 Raider was awarded to Northrop Grumman.
A 'Secret' Development
Since the contract was awarded, the development was so private that nobody knew any details about it... until now. Northrop Grumman established a team to test, design, and build the aircraft using the most advanced manufacturing techniques and breakthrough stealth technology.
The B-21 Raider is dual-capable, which means it can deliver conventional and nuclear munitions.
According to Doug Young, the sector vice president and general manager of Northrop Grumman, "The B-21 is the most advanced military aircraft ever built and is a product of pioneering innovation and technological excellence. The Raider showcases the dedication and skills of the thousands of people working every day to deliver this aircraft."
In March, the assembly of the first aircraft was completed and moved to the calibration testing phase. That was when the aircraft's structure was tested to determine if it meets the design expectations and needs of the users.
According to a press release by Northrop Grumman, there are now six aircraft in various stages of final assembly at their Palmdale facility in California. After this, they will need to undergo tests. After these tests, the first flight will take place.
The manufacturer is looking at 2023 for its very first flight test. However, the timing will be based on the results of the ground tests.
The rollout of the B-21 Raider will be at the Palmdale site and is an invitation-only event. The US Air Force has several aircraft today, including fighters and bombers.
The US Air Force, along with the other service branches (Army, Navy, and the Marines) are in dire need for more modern aircrafts.
The B-21 Raider will help enhance the country's long-range strike capability. Because of this, it will be a significant component of the service's future multi-role bomber force.
The Need for Better Aircraft
As the aerospace industry continues to develop, more breakthroughs are being made. Because of this, the possibility of new aircrafts being built is very high.
The US Air Force will have to design and build the new aircraft to make it one of the best air forces in the world. It will serve as a deterrent for the country's adversaries. It will also be a symbol of United States' power to the rest of the world. It will serve as a force multiplier.
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Written by April Fowell
