Long Range Strike - Bomber

The Long Range Strike - Bomber (B-21 Raider) program is a cornerstone of the U.S. Air Force's nuclear modernization strategy, designed to ensure the nation's ability to project power and deter adversaries well into the future. The program's primary objective is to develop, test, and field a new generation of stealth bombers capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions. The B-21 Raider is intended to provide the range, survivability, and payload capacity necessary to penetrate advanced air defenses and operate in highly contested environments. The Air Force has established a requirement for a minimum of 100 B-21 aircraft to form the backbone of its future bomber force.

The B-21 Development line item focuses on the engineering, manufacturing, and development of the B-21 platform. This includes the continued construction of test aircraft, scaling up manufacturing processes, expanding infrastructure, and increasing capacity across the industrial base. The program also supports ongoing test and evaluation activities to ensure the aircraft meets performance, survivability, and reliability requirements. The funding approach reflects a shift of some resources to mandatory accounts to support capacity expansion.

A key goal of the B-21 Development effort is to maintain progress through the transition from low-rate initial production to full fielding of operational aircraft. The program completed its Critical Design Review in 2018 and achieved Milestone C approval in 2023, allowing for the award of the first two production lots. Aircraft deliveries to operational bases are scheduled for the mid-2020s. The program also includes necessary civilian pay expenses to manage and execute the weapon system's development and delivery.

The B-21 Modernization line item was established to track modernization activities separately from the initial development funding. This line supports ongoing and future upgrades to the B-21 platform, ensuring it remains effective as threats and technologies evolve. Modernization efforts include studies, technical risk reduction, and integration of new capabilities. These efforts involve the integration of the Long Range Standoff Weapon, new conventional weapons, advanced sensors, and payloads, as well as continued nuclear certification activities.

Modernization activities are essential to maintaining the B-21's relevance over its expected service life. The open system architecture of the B-21 allows for rapid incorporation of new technologies and mission systems, supporting adaptability to emerging threats. The increase in modernization funding reflects the expanding scope of design and integration work, including enhanced technologies and infrastructure transitions from baseline development to modernization.

The acquisition strategy for both development and modernization emphasizes active management of contracts and partnerships with industry to achieve cost, schedule, and performance objectives. The Air Force works closely with the prime contractor and the supply chain to identify and mitigate risks early, incentivizing industry partners to deliver on program goals. This approach is intended to ensure the timely delivery of a highly capable and adaptable bomber force.