US Air Force to receive first B-21 Raider bombers in 2026

The United States Air Force (USAF) is expected to receive its first operational B-21 Raider strategic bombers as early as 2026, according to Air & Space Forces Magazine.

The 2026 fiscal year budget for the USAF includes a significant increase in funding for the B-21 program, with $10.3 billion requested overall. Of this amount, $4.5 billion is earmarked specifically to expand production capabilities at Northrop Grumman’s existing facility in Palmdale, California.

At least two B-21 bombers are slated for delivery in 2026. While initially intended for testing purposes, these aircraft could be rapidly converted for combat use if required.

Northrop Grumman originally planned to produce 7 to 8 B-21 bombers annually, but details on whether the production rate will increase remain unclear.

The B-21 Raider represents the next generation of stealth strategic bombers, designed to replace the ageing B-1 and B-2 fleets and enhance the USAF’s long-range strike capabilities.

By Vugar Khalilov