The first prototype of the secret B-21 bomber is said to be almost ready. A maiden flight is expected in mid-2022. In order to bridge the gap, the Pentagon publishes computer graphics from time to time, which always reveal a few characteristics of the aircraft.
Like all stealth bombers, the B-21 follows the concept of a flying wing in order to keep the radar shadow small. At first glance, the B-21 is very reminiscent of the older B-2 Spirit. But gradually it becomes clear how much the series differ.
Noticeable spikes
The new illustration shows the B-21 taking off from Edwards Air Force Base in Southern California. It was already noticeable beforehand that the rear edge had large spikes. They are designed to improve the jet’s low-flying characteristics. It is also a sign that the US Air Force is not relying on the concept of stealth alone.
Aircraft shape and a special coating significantly reduce the radar shadow of such a jet – as long as a conventional radar system is used. However, both China and Russia claim that they have found alternative ways to locate it. In addition to the prongs, the longer nose with the new viewing window design is noticeable, the bomber now looks like a giant bird of prey. The B-21 is said to have far better camouflage properties than its predecessor. Undercarriage details suggest that the B-21 will be smaller and lighter than the B-2A. The performance data such as range and payload of the new jet do not have to be worse. The renderings of the jet suggest that the volume inside the jet has increased.
China is building its own stealth bombers
The B-21 will be able to carry long-range conventional stand-off weapons and bombs for direct attacks. Then there is the role in the nuclear arsenal. The B-21 is said to be able to carry nuclear-armed long-range cruise missiles and nuclear bombs. The use of stealth bombers is relatively expensive. But they offer the possibility of increasing the operational range of cruise missiles practically worldwide. Should the USA also transport hypersonic weapons from their aircraft, the combination of a hypersonic missile and stealth carrier would be conceivable for surprise attacks without warning.
For a long time, the United States was the only country with strategic stealth bombers. Russia is now also working on a model. China already has the H-20 in service. It should be able to reach Hawaii from mainland China – without refueling in the air.
Hussar piece of the Second World War
The B-21 Raider is to be put into service by 2027 and is to be used alongside the B-52 Stratofortress, the B-1 Lancer and the B-2 Spirit. The Air Force wants to buy at least 100 units, but the wish list also speaks of 200 units. In the long term, the B-21 will replace both the B-1b Lance and the B-2A Spirit. In 1988 the B-2A Spirit was presented. The B-21 is the first new bomber in the USA in 40 years. The nickname “Raider” alludes to the so-called “Doolittle Raid”. In 1942, the USA put 16 B-25 Mitchell bombers on an aircraft carrier, primarily to boost morale after Pearl Harbor. On April 18, 1942, they attacked Tokyo and so the war reached Japanese soil for the first time.
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