The US Air Force has shown the most detailed image of a promising strategic bomber-the"invisible" B-21 Raider. In the future, it will replace such machines as the B-1B, B-2 and B-52.
The United States Air Force has presented a new image of the B-21 Raider stealth bomber, which, in particular, shows previously unknown features of the cockpit.
In the earlier images [...], only a couple of windows can be seen, while the latest render shows at least one new narrow sloping window on the left side. Probably on the other side there is the same. It is unclear for what purpose these windows will serve and why they were chosen for this particular form.
B-21
Image source: USAF
If we look at the concept as a whole, it has practically not undergone any metamorphoses in comparison with what was shown earlier. The image serves as another confirmation that the "flying wing"aerodynamic scheme was chosen for the B-21. This approach makes it possible to significantly reduce the effective scattering area and, as a result, reduce radar visibility compared to machines with vertical tail.
An earlier image of the B-21
Image source: USAF
In the new image, a bomber flies over Edwards Air Force Base in California. It is there that the new aircraft will be tested. "The modernization of nuclear capabilities is a top priority for the Department of Defense and the Air Force, and the B-21 plays a key role in this plan," the US Air Force said.
Earlier it became known that the United States has completed the construction of the first B-21 bombers. The initial plans involved the purchase of 80 to 100 aircraft at a price of $ 550 million per unit. Subsequently, the total number of cars was estimated at about 150.
According to the plans, the B-21 will reach its initial operational readiness by 2030. In the arsenal of the US Air Force, it will replace the B-1B, B-2 and B-52, and the latter, despite its well-deserved age, will be able to be in operation longer than others.
America is not the only country creating a new generation strategic bomber. Russia and China are actively working in this direction. The Russian program has the designation PAK DA (promising long-range aviation complex), and the Chinese aircraft is known as the H-20.
PAK DA in the artist's view
Image source: Russian Air Force And Navy Officers Film Company
Last year, it became known that Russian engineers have created a prototype of an aircraft engine designed for the PAK DA. The first flight of the new machine is supposed to be carried out around 2025.
