The United States is considering significantly expanding the production of the stealth bomber B-21 Raider, including the possible opening of a second assembly line.
The proposal comes amid growing concern over the geopolitical landscape and the need to modernize the country’s strategic air fleet.
During a Senate hearing, the head of STRATCOM, General Anthony Cotton, stated that the current plan of 100 aircraft no longer meets military demands. According to him, the Air Force would need at least 145 units to ensure deterrence capability against powers such as Russia and China.
To enable this increase, the Department of Defense is studying the expansion of its industrial base, which would allow production to accelerate and surpass initial targets. As a result, the total U.S. strategic bomber fleet could reach around 220 aircraft, combining new B-21s with modernized B-52 models.
The production boost also aims to gradually replace older aircraft, such as the B-1 Lancer and the B-2 Spirit, which are nearing the end of their operational life. Considered a key element of this modernization, the B-21 Raider represents a multi-billion-dollar, long-term investment in U.S. military capability.
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Source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @usairforce | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
The Department of the Air Force is expanding B-21 Raider production capacity by 25% to accelerate delivery of the next-generation stealth bomber & strengthen long-range strike.
More: https://t.co/OHHCoRPFea
— U.S. Air Force (@usairforce) March 8, 2026
