US Air Force Announces Second and Third B-21 Raider Bases.

The Secretary of the Air Force, Frank Kendall, has officially designated the second and third bases for the new B-21 Raider bomber. The selected locations are Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri and Dyess Air Force Base in Texas, in that order. Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota had already been chosen as the first base to host the B-21.
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The B-21 Raider is a strategic bomber designed to meet the US Air Force's needs for long-range strike and nuclear deterrence. (Picture source: US DoD)

“We continue to achieve key milestones in the production of the B-21; through digital engineering and open architecture design, we are obtaining an agile strategic deterrent that delivers a decisive response as required,” stated General Thomas Bussiere, commander of the Air Force Global Strike Command.

The B-21 Raider represents a major technological advancement as a long-range strike platform capable of both nuclear and conventional missions. Until the B-21 becomes operational, the Air Force Global Strike Command will maintain its readiness and strike capabilities by keeping the B-1 and B-2 bombers currently in service.

The B-21 Raider is a next-generation strategic bomber designed to meet the U.S. Air Force's needs for long-range strike and nuclear deterrence. This stealth bomber can carry a payload of 20,000 pounds, approximately 9,100 kg, making it a critical asset for both nuclear and conventional operations. With a length of 54 feet (16 meters) and an impressive wingspan of 132 feet (40 meters), the B-21 is sized appropriately for deep strike missions while maximizing its stealth capabilities to evade enemy defenses.

In terms of weight, the B-21 has an empty weight of 70,000 pounds (31,751 kg), making it relatively light for its category. Its ability to take off with a maximum weight of 180,000 pounds (81,647 kg) highlights its capacity to carry a significant amount of fuel and weaponry, ensuring an extended operational range.

In terms of performance, the B-21 Raider can reach speeds exceeding Mach 0.8, allowing it to move quickly toward targets while maintaining its stealth capability. Its advanced design is based on cutting-edge technologies, including digital engineering and open architecture, providing great flexibility to integrate future weapon systems. The B-21 is thus destined to play a key role in the U.S. deterrence strategy for decades to come.

The Air Force plans to acquire at least 100 B-21s. The bomber is currently in the low-rate production phase and undergoing flight tests, with delivery expected in the mid-2020s.