America completes the final major mission with the B-2 bomber, which will retire in the next five years and be replaced by the B-21 Raider.
B-21: On June 22, 2025, at 12:01 AM, US Air Force B-2 bomber aircraft took off from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, USA. After a long journey of approximately 17 hours, these aircraft entered the airspace of the US command center in the Middle East. Subsequently, in the evening, they entered Iranian airspace and targeted key nuclear facilities like Fordow and Natanz.
The aircraft crossed the Pacific Ocean, and were refueled in mid-air during the mission. The attack, which took place between 6:40 PM and 7:05 PM, made it clear that America remains the world's most advanced and aggressive military power. Shortly after the attack, the US announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran.
B-2 to Retire, B-21 Raider Incoming
The US is preparing to retire the B-2 bomber aircraft that carried out the attack within the next five years. It will be replaced by the B-21 Raider, which is more lethal, accurate, and technologically advanced. This is the 'Next Generation Stealth Bomber,' developed under the Long Range Strike Bomber (LRS-B) program. Its first appearance was in December 2022, and it completed its maiden flight in November 2023.
The Story Behind the Name B-21 Raider
The name 'Raider' for this fighter aircraft has a historical context. During World War II, a US Air Force team called the 'Doolittle Raiders' carried out a daring attack on Japan. The B-21 was named 'Raider' in memory of the bravery and sacrifice of that team. It is not just a name but a symbol of American military heritage.
A New Dimension in Stealth Technology
The B-21 Raider is designed to be far more advanced than the B-2 in terms of stealth technology. Its design allows it to attack covertly, hidden from any country's radar systems. The cockpit windows are newly designed to avoid radar detection. The aircraft uses cutting-edge aerodynamics, making it extremely stable and accurate in the air.
Dual Capability Platform
The B-21 is not just a conventional bomber. It is capable of carrying and firing both nuclear and conventional weapons. It can launch missiles over long ranges and precisely attack enemy bholds. Its biggest feature is its dual-capability platform, which makes it multi-purpose.
Equipped with Artificial Intelligence and Modern Systems
This aircraft can be flown by only two pilots - a pilot and a mission commander. It can be flown both manually and fully automatically. Its computers control the mission with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This reduces human intervention and increases the accuracy of the mission.
The Digital Power of the B-21
The digital open-system design of this aircraft makes it upgradable according to future needs. Necessary changes can be made in it with the changing threats and war technologies over time. This is why the B-21 is considered 'future ready'.
Deployment and Production Plans
The US Air Force is initially purchasing approximately 100 B-21 aircraft. Experts believe that their number could increase to 145 to 200 in the coming years. These aircraft will be deployed specifically in areas where the enemy's air defense systems are highly robust and impenetrable.
The Striking Capabilities of the B-21 Raider
The B-21 Raider can stealthily enter enemy territory, attack, and return without anyone knowing. It can conduct precision bombing from an altitude of approximately 50,000 feet. Its wingspan is approximately 132 feet and its length is about 54 feet. Its design minimizes its shadow and radar cross-section, making it an 'invisible warrior'.
Why is the B-21 Raider Special?
This aircraft addresses all the shortcomings that were apparent in the B-2. It is faster, safer, and more durable. It has a software-based mission control system that can change strategies in real time. Its maintenance costs are also lower compared to the B-2, making it more practical for long-term operations.
