The U.S. Air Force announced that its next‑generation B‑21 Raider stealth bomber program is ahead of schedule, with the first operational aircraft slated to arrive at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota in 2027.
During the Life Cycle Industry Days conference, the director of Critical Major Weapon Systems highlighted a 25% acceleration in the B‑21 acquisition program following a $4.5 billion funding boost incorporated into the 2025 reconciliation bill.
Northrop Grumman plans to produce seven operational B‑21 bombers annually, aiming to field at least 100 aircraft to replace the B‑1 Lancer and B‑2 Spirit while complementing the modernized B‑52 Stratofortress fleet expected to remain in service into the mid‑century.
The Air Force’s fiscal year 2027 budget proposal requests $6.1 billion for the B‑21 program, reflecting the accelerated development and production schedule.
Concurrently, the Boeing‑built F‑47 fighter program has reached an unprecedented level of maturity, with the first flight scheduled for 2028 and a planned acquisition of 185 aircraft.
The F‑47 will replace the F‑22 Raptor as the primary air superiority fighter and will operate alongside autonomous “loyal wingman” drones designed to support crewed aircraft in combat.
For the F‑47 program, the Pentagon has requested $5.03 billion in the fiscal year 2027 budget.
