US unveils nuclear stealth bomber as tensions with China rise

The B-21 Raider is the first new US bomber aircraft in more than 30 years
Sami Quadri3 December 2022

The newest nuclear stealth bomber in the US has made its public debut after years of secret development, as part of the Pentagon’s answer to rising tensions with China.

The B-21 Raider is the first new US bomber aircraft in more than 30 years and is estimated to cost $729.25million (£592million).

The plane is capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear weapons around the world and was unveiled at the US Air Force’s Plant 42 in Palmdale, California.

Ahead of its unveiling, only artists’ renderings of the warplane have been released while almost every aspect of the programme is classified.

Although both Russia and China are building elaborate weapon systems and next-generation strategic bombers, the B-21 will be one of the most advanced military aircraft in the world.

US defence secretary Lloyd Austin said: "This isn’t just another airplane.

"It’s the embodiment of America’s determination to defend the republic that we all love. We will soon fly this aircraft, test it, and then move it into production.”

It is thought up to six planes are in various stages of assembly in Palmdale and the US military plans to buy at least 100 models in order to replace the B-1 and B-2 bombers.

“With the capability to hold targets at risk anywhere in the world, this weapon system is critical to our national security,” Doug Young, the vice-president of Northrop Grumman’s strike division, said at an air, space and cyberdefence conference.

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