Overview

• The Air Force confirmed the second B-21’s arrival at Edwards Air Force Base, giving the Combined Test Force two flying prototypes to move beyond basic flight checks into weapons integration and mission-systems evaluations.
• USAF leaders said the enlarged test fleet adds momentum, with Secretary Troy Meink and Gen. David Allvin framing the step as key to accelerating evaluations tied to strategic deterrence.
• Maintainers at Edwards are now practicing simultaneous sustainment for multiple aircraft, validating maintenance tools, technical data, and logistics processes for future squadrons.
• The program remains in flight and ground testing while moving into low-rate initial production, with major FY2026 construction planned at all three operating bases and Ellsworth AFB preparing to host the first operational Raiders.
• Developed with Northrop Grumman under the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office for conventional and nuclear missions, the Raider’s progress coincides with outside scrutiny, including an unverified Chinese simulation reported by SCMP that claims counters to the bomber.