It aims to form the backbone of the United States Air Force: “invisible”, fast and can be managed with Artificial Intelligence. Its name, the B-21 Raider, a sixth-generation bomber built by Northrop Grumman.
Presented at the end of 2022, the B-21 Raider cost 639 million dollars: the US government plans to buy 100 to start.
In the midst of tensions with Russia over Ukraine and with China over Taiwan, it is still a weapon of fear for both rivals.
“The B-21 provides utility in achieving our nation’s security goal in every imaginable scenario,” retired Air Force Lt. Gen. David Deptula said in conversation with the Wall Street Journal. “No other weapons system can do that.”
Let’s get to know the B-21 Raider in five very important facts.
Five key facts about America’s B-21 Raider
1. It works with and without crew. In accordance with Northrop Grumman, two pilots can work on the B-21 Raider, but it also has the ability to be remotely piloted for bombing runs. It works for long-range and electronic attacks, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
2. Goes “Invisible”: Features innovative stealth technology, greatly reducing infrared, acoustic, electromagnetic, visual and radar signatures. It could even counter Russian and Chinese surface-to-air missiles.
3. It reaches a subsonic speed, flying at less than 1,235 kilometers per hour. Here it is at a disadvantage against China’s J-20 stealth fighter and Russia’s SU-57, but as long as its stealth technology is maintained, it will not suffer major problems.
4. It guarantees the upgrade of the bombs you use, allowing the aircraft to integrate new weapons faster than any other. It can even transport nuclear material.
5. It has sensors controlled by Artificial Intelligence, in order to identify enemy targets and share intelligence with allies for coordinated attacks. It also shares data with the US Army, Navy, Air Force and Space Force.