DefenseNorthrop Grumman in Talks with USAF to Accelerate B-21 Production
Northrop Grumman is negotiating with the US Air Force (USAF) to accelerate production of the B-21 bomber, as the second aircraft began flight testing in September at Edwards Air Force Base.
The discussions come amid US government approval of $4.5 billion in funding, incentivizing the company to scale up output. The Air Force may issue advance procurement contracts for production lots three and five before the end of 2025.
Several B-21 airframes are currently undergoing ground tests, joining two aircraft already in flight testing, said Northrop Grumman CEO Kathy Warden. The test program now includes assessments of weapon integration and mission systems.
Northrop Grumman has described current B-21 production as a financial balancing act. The company has reported a $477 million loss attributed to changes in production processes.
The B-21 program reached a new phase with the start of flight operations for its second aircraft, following earlier milestones in ground testing.
The Air Force expects to have at least 100 of these jets that will replace the B-2 and B-1B in the second half of the decade.
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