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US Air Force balances legacy and innovation with future bomber fleet

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US Air Force balances legacy and innovation with future bomber fleet
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Simple Flying | Simple Flying

In a move that underscores the United States Air Force's commitment to maintaining a diverse bomber fleet, the sixth-generation Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider will soon join ranks with the venerable B-52 Superfortress. The latter, first flown in 1952 and entering service in 1955, remains an integral part of the U.S. strategic arsenal despite its age.

The B-21 Raider, anticipated to enter service by 2027, represents a significant technological leap forward. Despite being costly, it is projected to be more economical than its predecessor, the B-2 Spirit, when adjusted for inflation. The B-52s are expected to remain operational into the 2050s or beyond, highlighting their enduring utility.

Historically, several aircraft were developed as potential successors to the B-52. These include the North American Aviation XB-70 Valkyrie and Convair B-58 Hustler. However, these programs were either canceled or faced limitations such as high costs and operational challenges.

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The Rockwell B-1 Lancer partially replaced the B-52 but is slated for retirement with the introduction of the B-21 Raider. Meanwhile, plans for retiring the Northrop B-2 Spirit have been delayed due to ongoing upgrades costing $7 billion.

Despite differences in capabilities and roles—wherein "the B-52 is comparatively cheap and simple to operate," while "the B-21 Raider is expensive and sophisticated"—both aircraft will coexist within different mission profiles. The former will serve as a platform for launching long-range missiles from outside enemy air defenses; meanwhile, "the B-21 Raider...was designed to conduct penetrating strike missions against an adversary with advanced air defenses."

This dual approach reflects broader strategies within U.S. military aviation where high/low pairings are employed effectively across various platforms.

Organizations Included in this History
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