Northrop Grumman Accelerating B-21 Raider Production

The B-21 program showcases Northrop Grumman's proven performance and commitment to fielding advanced technologies and capabilities at the speed of need.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Northrop Grumman and the U.S. Air Force are accelerating production capacity of the B-21 Raider, delivering unmatched combat capability faster. The B-21 program is a testament to the results-focused collaboration between Northrop Grumman and the Air Force, with Northrop Grumman investing over $5 billion in digital engineering and manufacturing infrastructure to power the production of this game-changing capability.

Why it matters

The B-21 Raider is designed to hold any target at risk, anywhere in the world, providing decision-makers with flexible, survivable response options across the full spectrum of conflict. As a key component of a powerful family of systems, the B-21 will deliver a new era of capability and flexibility, strengthening and defending the nation's security in an increasingly complex global landscape.

The details

The first B-21 aircraft is on track to arrive at Ellsworth Air Force Base in 2027, with multiple aircraft currently in flight test and demonstrating outstanding performance that exceeds expectations. Northrop Grumman's advanced manufacturing processes, including digital and augmented reality tools, enable technicians to visualize tasks and solve problems before ever touching the plane, improving efficiency and cultivating expertise throughout the manufacturing workforce.

  • The first B-21 aircraft is on track to arrive at Ellsworth Air Force Base in 2027.
  • Multiple B-21 Raider aircraft are currently in flight test.

The players

Northrop Grumman

An American aerospace and defense technology company that has invested more than $5 billion in the B-21 program's digital and manufacturing infrastructure.

U.S. Air Force

The military branch that is partnering with Northrop Grumman to accelerate production of the B-21 Raider.

Kathy Warden

The chair, chief executive officer and president of Northrop Grumman.

Tom Jones

The corporate vice president and president of Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems.

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What they’re saying

“The strong performance of the B-21 program has our Northrop Grumman and Air Force team ready to accelerate production of this game-changing capability for our nation.”

— Kathy Warden, Chair, Chief Executive Officer and President, Northrop Grumman

“Getting the B-21 Raider into the hands of our Air Force operators and maintainers is the mission of thousands of dedicated Northrop Grumman team members.”

— Tom Jones, Corporate Vice President and President, Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems

What’s next

The first B-21 aircraft is on track to arrive at Ellsworth Air Force Base in 2027.

The takeaway

The B-21 Raider program showcases Northrop Grumman's proven performance, strategic investments, and mission-driven partnership with the U.S. Air Force to deliver unmatched combat capability and strengthen America's national security in an increasingly complex global landscape.