5 Things To Know About New Air Force Drone B2

The development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly referred to as drones, has revolutionized the way military operations are conducted. Among the various types of drones being developed and deployed by the US Air Force, the B2 Spirit bomber is not actually a drone, but rather a multi-role bomber. However, the Air Force is working on a new drone called the B-21 Raider, which is a next-generation stealth bomber. Here are five things to know about the new Air Force drone B-21:

What is the B-21 Raider?

The B-21 Raider is a sixth-generation stealth bomber being developed by Northrop Grumman for the US Air Force. The aircraft is designed to be a multi-role bomber, capable of conducting a variety of missions, including strategic bombing, tactical bombing, and reconnaissance. The B-21 is expected to replace the B-2 Spirit and B-1B Lancer bombers in the Air Force's inventory.

Stealth Capabilities

The B-21 Raider is designed to be a stealth aircraft, with a radar-absorbent material (RAM) coating and a unique design that reduces its radar cross-section. The aircraft's shape and size are optimized to minimize its visibility to radar, making it difficult for enemy air defenses to detect. The B-21's stealth capabilities will allow it to penetrate deep into enemy territory undetected, making it an effective tool for conducting strategic bombing missions.

Advanced Sensors and Avionics

The B-21 Raider will be equipped with advanced sensors and avionics, including a advanced radar system, electro-optical/infrared sensors, and a communications system that allows it to communicate with other aircraft and ground stations in real-time. The aircraft's sensors and avionics will provide the pilot with a comprehensive view of the battlefield, allowing them to detect and engage targets with precision.

Unmanned Capability

The B-21 Raider is expected to have unmanned capability, allowing it to be flown remotely by a pilot or autonomously using advanced software. The aircraft's unmanned capability will allow it to conduct missions that are too dangerous for manned aircraft, such as reconnaissance and surveillance missions in hostile territory.

Next-Generation Engine

The B-21 Raider will be powered by a next-generation engine, the Pratt & Whitney PW9000. The PW9000 engine is a high-bypass turbofan engine that provides a significant increase in power and efficiency compared to current engines. The engine's advanced design and materials will allow the B-21 to achieve higher speeds and altitudes, making it more effective in its mission.

Low Observable Technology

The B-21 Raider will incorporate low observable technology (LOT), which reduces the aircraft's visibility to radar, infrared, and visual detection. The LOT technology will be used to minimize the aircraft's radar cross-section, infrared signature, and visual signature, making it difficult for enemy air defenses to detect.

Conclusion

The B-21 Raider is a next-generation stealth bomber that will provide the US Air Force with a significant increase in capability and effectiveness. The aircraft's advanced sensors and avionics, unmanned capability, next-generation engine, and low observable technology will make it an invaluable asset for conducting strategic bombing missions. The B-21 Raider is expected to enter service in the mid-2020s and will play a critical role in the Air Force's future operations.

B-21 Raider Image Gallery

What is the B-21 Raider?

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The B-21 Raider is a sixth-generation stealth bomber being developed by Northrop Grumman for the US Air Force.

What is the purpose of the B-21 Raider?

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The B-21 Raider is designed to be a multi-role bomber, capable of conducting strategic bombing, tactical bombing, and reconnaissance missions.

What is the estimated cost of the B-21 Raider program?

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The estimated cost of the B-21 Raider program is approximately $60 billion.