Air Force Receives Second B21 Raider Test Aircraft
Sept 15 2025 | Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs
The U.S. Air Force has welcomed its second B-21 Raider test aircraft, which landed at Edwards Air Force Base, California, on September 11. This addition boosts the service’s ability to carry out wider flight tests and prepare maintainers for future operations.
With two aircraft now in testing, the Air Force can move beyond simple flight checks. The program is entering the next phase—evaluating mission systems and integrating weapons—bringing the nation’s sixth-generation stealth bomber closer to operational use.
“Adding the second B-21 Raider gives our test campaign strong momentum,” said Air Force Secretary Troy Meink. “It allows us to speed up key evaluations that support both deterrence and combat effectiveness.”
The arrival also provides vital training for maintainers. Working with multiple aircraft at once helps crews practice sustainment, test maintenance tools, verify technical data, and refine logistics processes. These steps are essential for the bomber’s future squadrons.
“This second Raider accelerates the path to fielding,” explained Air Force Chief of Staff Gen David Allvin. “More assets in testing mean faster delivery to our warfighters, showing the urgency we place on modernization.”
Alongside testing, the Air Force is preparing its bases for the B-21’s arrival. In fiscal year 2026, major construction projects will begin at all three main operating bases. Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota—the first base set to host the bomber—is already moving forward with infrastructure upgrades.
“The B-21 Raider is a cornerstone of nuclear modernization,” Allvin said. “Our combined efforts in testing, sustainment, and infrastructure show our commitment to unmatched capabilities that will deter and defeat future threats.
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