The United States Air Force released photos of the second stealth bomber B-21 Raider during its first flight, showing details of the aircraft en route to Edwards Air Force Base in California.
Possibly nicknamed “Spartan,” the new B-21 joins the first test aircraft, “Cerberus,” and will be used to advance weapons integration testing and maintenance evaluations.
The photo record includes the first image of both bombers together, marking a visual milestone in the secret program.
The second B-21 did not carry some typical test-prototype equipment, such as the air data probe, indicating that sufficient data had already been collected with the first aircraft. Nevertheless, the flight followed standard protocols, including escort aircraft and landing configuration tests.
The addition of another aircraft to the test fleet allows faster evaluation of mission systems, weapons, and maintenance operations, while providing hands-on experience for Air Force technicians.
The B-21 Raider, developed to replace the B-1B Lancer and B-2 Spirit and operate alongside the upgraded B-52J, represents a strategic step in the US nuclear modernization program. The Air Force plans to acquire at least 100 units, with Ellsworth Air Force Base as the first operational base.
Production is being scaled up to meet future demand, involving multiple suppliers and infrastructure investments, while flight testing continues to prepare the Raider for operational service.
Source: The Aviationist | Photo: X @OfficialCSAF | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
Tail 2 on the ground at @EdwardsAFB! pic.twitter.com/bEehEWh0Vp
— General David Allvin (@OfficialCSAF) September 12, 2025
