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Cost comparison between new US bombers raises questions

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Cost comparison between new US bombers raises questions
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The B-21 Raider, a new bomber developed by Northrop Grumman, is being positioned as a more cost-effective successor to the B-2 Spirit. According to reports, the B-21 is not only smaller and stealthier but also cheaper. However, some factors could still increase its costs.

Comparing the costs of these two bombers presents challenges due to unknown total development costs for the B-21 and adjustments needed for inflation when assessing the B-2's expenses. The United States Air Force has stated that in 1998 dollars, the B-2 Spirit cost around $1.157 billion, which equates to approximately $2.25 billion today. Its development program amounted to about $45 billion in 1997 dollars or $92 billion currently.

In contrast, the average unit procurement cost for the B-21 Raider is estimated at $692 million in base year 2022 dollars or $749 million in today's terms. This makes it roughly one-third of the cost of its predecessor.

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The Air Force has awarded Northrop Grumman a contract worth $7 billion for upgrades and midlife services on 19 remaining Spirits, translating to about $348 million per aircraft.

In fiscal year 2025, the Air Force requested $2.7 billion for the B-21 program. It was noted that Northrop Grumman incurred a loss on producing its first aircraft; this might suggest future price increases although production maturity could reduce costs over time.

The original plan was for at least 100 B-21 Raiders costing an estimated total of at least $203 billion over three decades. Currently, there are about three prototype units built with plans to purchase around 100 bombers.

Northrop Grumman's use of digital design tools has been highlighted as a significant factor in reducing both time and costs associated with developing new aircraft like their Model 437 drone using advanced techniques such as digital engineering ecosystems and possibly even incorporating 3D printing components.

"Northrop Grumman's fully digital engineering ecosystem reduces engineering rework accelerates schedule and saves costs for customers on future aircraft programs," states Northrop Grumman regarding their approach towards innovation within aviation technology advancements.

As history shows with projects like these – if production runs are cut short then per-unit prices rise but should orders increase beyond initial expectations shared developmental expenditures will likely decrease accordingly thereby impacting overall affordability positively from long-term perspectives too!

Organizations Included in this History
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