Air Force Confirms B-21 Production Agreement, Service Begins in 2027
The U.S. Air Force has reached an agreement worth $4.5 billion with Northrop Grumman to enhance the production of the B-21 bombers. This deal aims to increase the production rate by 25%, ensuring the aircraft is “on the ramp” at its operational base, Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, by 2027.
Air Force and Northrop Grumman Deal Overview
This significant production agreement was announced by Secretary of the Air Force Troy E. Meink during the Air Force Association’s Warfare Symposium on February 23. The announcement underlines the Air Force’s commitment to accelerating its modernization efforts amid emerging global threats.
Key Agreement Details
- Deal Value: $4.5 billion
- Production Rate Increase: 25%
- Operational Base: Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota
- Expected Service Start: 2027
The funding for this initiative was part of Congress’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, approved last summer. Meink highlighted that the agreement will allow for a faster delivery of operational capabilities to combatant commanders.
Production Insights
The production rate for the B-21 remains classified, but estimates suggest it could reach approximately seven bombers per year. With the added capacity, this could mean an additional two bombers annually once full production is achieved. Currently, the program is undergoing low-rate initial production, covering a total of 21 aircraft across five lots.
- Current Requirement: Minimum of 100 B-21 aircraft
- Proposals by U.S. Strategic Command: Aiming for 145 bombers or more
Despite discussions about increasing the total number of B-21 aircraft, the program of record remains unchanged at this time.
B-21 Aircraft Significance
The B-21 is recognized as the world’s first sixth-generation bomber, designed to replace both the B-1B and B-2 bombers in the U.S. Air Force fleet. It is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing the Air Force’s long-range strike capabilities.
The recent agreement with Northrop Grumman marks a significant step in the Air Force’s efforts to modernize its fleet and respond effectively to evolving military challenges.
