Particle.news
Download on the App Store
15 ARTICLES
·
3w ago

Air Force Unveils B-21 Refueling Tests With First Overhead Photos

The confirmation signals the stealth bomber’s test program is shifting into mission-relevant tasks that pave the way for fielding.

A B-21 Raider conducts aerial refueling with a KC-135 Stratotanker. (Image credit: U.S. Air Force)
B-21 Raider. Image Credit: U.S. Air Force.
Image
A second B-21 Raider test aircraft takes off, Sept. 11, from Palmdale, Calif., to join the Air Force’s flight test campaign at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. The addition of the second test aircraft expands mission systems and weapons integration testing, advancing the program toward operational readiness. (Courtesy photo)

Overview

  • The B-21 Raider’s flight-test team released photos Tuesday showing the bomber taking fuel from a KC-135 over Edwards Air Force Base, confirming aerial refueling as a key capability milestone.
  • One image provides the first top-down view of the aircraft, revealing its recessed engine inlets, dorsal refueling receptacle, and a rounded exhaust area, while also identifying test airframe AF-0001 with a nose probe and trailing cone fitted for data collection.
  • All testing is underway at Edwards in a partnership between the Air Force Test Center, the 412th Test Wing, and Northrop Grumman, with two B-21s now flying since a second jet arrived in September 2025 to expand mission-systems and weapons work.
  • Program leaders say recent progress reflects a push to move from development to production, following a February agreement that targets a 25% increase in annual output and keeps the first operational delivery to Ellsworth Air Force Base on track for 2027.
  • Air Force officials describe the B-21 as the most fuel‑efficient bomber yet, which lowers tanker demand and gives crews longer endurance and more flexible strike options once in-flight refueling extends range across global missions.