The B-21 stealth bomber will join an operational squadron next year, and a first flight scheduled for 2028 for the F-47 next-generation fighter.
It maintains the two-person crew configuration of the B-2, which includes a pilot and a mission commander, who handles weapons and countermeasures.
The Department of the Air Force announced that the B-21 Raider, the nation’s newest long-range strike bomber, will officially operate with a two-pilot crew complement.
SecAF Troy Meink visited Ellsworth AFB June 30-July 1 to receive updates on the 28th Bomb Wing’s B-1B Lancer operations and the ongoing preparations to onboard the B-21 Raider.
The B-21 Raider program continues to accelerate the delivery of long-range strike capability, with aerial refueling via a KC-135 Stratotanker demonstrating the rapid maturation of the weapon system.