The US Air Force official managing the B-21 Raider stealth bomber programme has offered an update on its progress. The bomber, being developed and manufactured by Northrop Grumman, is beginning to “look like an airplane,” Randy Walden said. The company is currently building the test aircraft at Plant 42 in Palmdale, California and the Air Force hopes it will be ready for its first flight by the end of next year.
“The first test aircraft is being built, and it’s starting to look like an airplane,” Walden said. “Suppliers from across the country are delivering parts that are coming together now. Aircraft programs will always have a few surprises early on, and we won’t be any different, but overall the B-21 Raider is coming along nicely.”...
...Northrop Grumman’s contract for engineering and manufacturing development (including the first five aircraft) represents a $23.5 billion investment. The production contract could be worth $55 billion for 100 airplanes....MORE
