Northrop Grumman is making steady progress on the B-21 Raider, demonstrating strong performance in both testing and production. The recent approval of a second Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) contract highlights confidence in the aircraft’s capabilities and ongoing development. From the start, the company has worked alongside the U.S. Air Force to ensure adaptability, efficiency, and affordability, keeping long-term strategic goals in focus.
Northrop Grumman integrated a digital ecosystem early in the B-21’s development, allowing engineers to refine hardware and software well before production began. This system enabled testing in controlled environments before moving to a flying test bed, where over 200 sorties and more than 1,000 flight hours were completed before the B-21’s first official flight. These extensive trials provided teams with the opportunity to identify and resolve potential issues ahead of full-scale production.
“As a result of Northrop Grumman’s innovative technologies and diligent execution, we only had to make one software change through the first year of flight test,” said Tom Jones, corporate vice president and president of Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems. “Now as we combine our mature digital ecosystem with proven accuracy, Northrop Grumman and the U.S. Air Force can realize efficiency and speed in a way that’s never been done before in a major acquisition program.”
By leveraging digital tools, Northrop Grumman has cut software certification time in half, streamlining the approval process. The ability to validate aircraft performance in real time eliminates delays that previously required days of post-flight analysis, further supporting a steady and efficient testing schedule.
Advanced Manufacturing Enhances Efficiency
Northrop Grumman has invested more than $2 billion in infrastructure and technology to create a seamless production process for the B-21. The digital ecosystem connects every aspect of the design and assembly process, ensuring that all teams have access to the latest information. This integration has already led to a reduction in assembly time by nearly one-third in key areas.
The company has also introduced artificial intelligence, robotics, and augmented reality to improve production efficiency and accuracy. These technologies support technicians by providing real-time assistance during assembly, minimizing errors and optimizing workflows.
“Northrop Grumman’s decision to build the test jets on the actual production line is one example of the program strategy that’s paying dividends. We entered Production Lot 2 in Q4 of 2024, with a B-21 workforce that’s come down the learning curve earlier in production,” Jones stated. “Not only have we learned how to build B-21, we’re learning how to build B-21 better and at scale – optimizing several areas of the build for long-term efficiency and affordability.”
Sustainable Design Supports Long-Term Operations
Northrop Grumman designed the B-21 for long-term operational efficiency, ensuring it requires minimal maintenance between missions. The aircraft was developed as a daily flyer, incorporating decades of experience in stealth operations. Engineers have used the Highly Immersive Virtual Environment (HIVE) to simulate maintenance procedures, allowing sustainment tasks to be planned with precision.
Flight testing has already confirmed the B-21’s ability to complete multiple sorties in a single week, demonstrating its reliability for sustained operations. The Combined Test Force (CTF) continues to monitor performance data, ensuring that the aircraft meets all operational and strategic objectives.
The B-21 has remained within government cost targets while progressing through testing and production. More than just a bomber, it is designed to adapt to future challenges, operating as a standalone system or as part of a networked force that integrates external sensors and platforms.
By maintaining a balance between innovation, cost control, and testing, Northrop Grumman continues advancing the B-21 program efficiently. With fewer unexpected challenges and risks, the company remains focused on delivering an aircraft that meets national defense priorities.
