It has been decades since the Air Force last developed a nuclear missile, the secretary says, and surprise issues are cropping up. It's the first new American bomber aircraft in more than 30 years, and almost every aspect of the program is classified. By Tara Copp, AP
6 months ago The Air Force and Northrop Grumman hope to fly the B-21 to Edwards Air Force Base later this year, barring unexpected surprises. The SiAW would strike enemy air defense targets on the ground, and the Air Force wants it to reach initial operational capability by 2026. Engine runs on the first B-21 are underway, with tests of its fuel systems, doors, landing gear and more already complete. JetZero and Northrop Grumman will ready a full-scale prototype for its first flight in 2027. With the clock ticking on retiring the Air Force's aging E-3 Sentry fleet, every second counts on building the E-7s that will replace them. The Air Force is adapting AETP features into the future Next Generation Air Dominance platform’s engines. Lawmakers want deeper analysis from the Space Force on a decision to eliminate one satellite from the Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared program. The Air Force plans to award a contract to a vendor to build its Next Generation Air Dominance fighter in 2024. Load More