The weapon that has caused sleepless nights for both China and Russia has now become a part of the US Army. Its name is the B-21 bomber. It is the world’s first and only sixth-generation stealth bomber. The US Air Force recently released its flying video. This has created a stir in the defense world. Today we will find out why the B-21 bomber is being called the world’s number one weapon. Why is America retiring its old but massive B-2 bombers? And how will this new aircraft change the face of aerial warfare in the coming decade?
First, let’s understand what the B-21 bomber actually is. In fact, it is not an ordinary stealth bomber; it is the most modern, lethal, and durable stealth platform to date. It is a sixth-generation bomber, meaning it is the first and only in its class. It has been specially designed to keep major powers like China and Russia in check. The US already has approximately 20 B-2 Spirit bombers, but these are now gradually being retired and their place is being taken by the B-21 bomber.
Now the question is, why is the B-2 Spirit being retired? People are asking why there is a need to remove the B-2 Spirit when it is so excellent. The answer lies in cost and maintenance. The biggest problem with operating the B-2 Spirit is its stealth coating. After a single flight, its coating gets so damaged that it needs to be completely replaced after every mission. This means that for each flight, America has to spend 1 to 2 million dollars.
As a result, while the B-2 Spirit is lethal, it is very expensive to operate daily. Therefore, America has designed the B-21 in such a way that its stealth coating is durable. It will not need to be replaced repeatedly, but rather repaired after several months or even years.
Now, let’s learn about the capabilities of the B-21 Raider. In fact, the B-21 is not just a replacement for the B-2; it is far more advanced. Some of its features include: low operational costs. Compared to the B-2, the B-21 is much cheaper to fly. Its technology allows it to be flown continuously, not just during bombing runs. It is the world’s most technologically advanced stealth aircraft. It is almost impossible to detect on radar.
The B-21 can carry both conventional weapons and nuclear payloads, meaning it is ready for all types of missions. Along with this, it is not just an aircraft but also like a flying command center. It can continuously share data with other combat aircraft, drones, and ground systems.
Now, let’s discuss its impact on the world and why the world has been shaken by its arrival. In fact, this move by America has created an atmosphere of concern worldwide. First, let’s talk about China. America’s increasing activities in the South China Sea are already a headache for China. Now, the possibility of continuous patrols by bombers like the B-21 has increased China’s apprehension.
Regarding Russia, Russia’s air defense system is considered one of the most advanced in the world, but according to reports, the B-21 is capable of defeating them. As for the rest of the world, other countries have still failed to develop stealth bombers on par with the B-2. In such a situation, America has brought in a sixth-generation bomber directly, putting it many times ahead of all other countries.
Now, let’s talk about its production and future plans. Currently, the US Air Force has three B-21 Raiders, but there are plans to build a total of 100 B-21s in the future. For this, America has established three factories. By mid-next year, i.e., around June-July 2026, it will begin to be used in combat. Pilots are currently undergoing training because this aircraft incorporates so much new technology that pilots will need time to understand and operate it.
America wants to use the B-21 not just for bombing, but as a deterrence weapon. That is, to constantly fly it in Chinese airspace, the South China Sea, and the Indo-Pacific region to assert its presence. Where repeatedly flying the B-2 was expensive, the B-21 can be easily used for patrols and power projection.
While other countries are still trying to catch up to America’s current weapons, America is already thinking 20-25 years ahead. They are working on sixth-generation systems. For other countries, it will simply remain a ‘catch-up’ game.
Anyway, this is the B-21 Raider. It is not just a new aircraft but a weapon set to redefine aerial warfare in the coming decade. Now, a question for you: will the arrival of the B-21 tilt the global balance of power even further in America’s favor, or will countries like China and Russia soon come up with a response?