Overview
- The Air Force proposed up to $1.7 billion to upgrade B-1Bs and all 19 B-2s from 2027 to 2031 to keep them flying into 2037.
- The Pentagon’s FY2027 request includes an extra $6.1 billion for the B-21 Raider to speed development and production.
- The B-21 is in low-rate initial production with flight testing underway using multiple test aircraft.
- Combat in Iran showed high demand for long-range stealth and highlighted the B-2’s unique ability to haul two 30,000-pound bunker-buster bombs.
- To keep seasoned crews through the transition, the Air Force is offering aviation bonuses up to $600,000.