B-21 Raider to fly with two-pilot configuration

[william]

The Air Force is also creating a pilot transition program from select weapons system officers, or WSOs, and combat systems officers, or CSOs. The officers will be chosen to attend the program with a follow-on assignment to the B-21.

“To maximize the lethality and survivability of the Raider, it is imperative to retain the deep tactical and combat experience currently residing within the WSO and CSO communities,” the statement says.

“This deliberate talent management strategy secures the future of global strike capabilities, ensuring the Air Force remains postured to execute extended-duration, long-range strike missions in highly contested environments,” the release reads. The Air Force plans to build at least 100 B-21s in variants with and without pilots.

In February, Northrop Grumman and the Air Force announced they were accelerating the annual production capacity by 25%. Deliveries for the Raider began in 2025, a year following its contract award.

The first operational B-21 is slated to arrive at Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, in 2027.

The program’s increase in production will begin gradually with the expected full production rate of seven aircraft per year.

B-21 Raider to fly with two-pilot configuration

The Air Force's new long-range strike bomber will operation with a two-pilot configuration.

www.airforcetimes.com

https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/4538932/air-force-announces-b-21-raider-crew-complement/

 

[Torch]

“To maximize the lethality and survivability of the Raider, it is imperative to retain the deep tactical and combat experience currently residing within the WSO and CSO communities,” the statement says.

“This deliberate talent management strategy secures the future of global strike capabilities, ensuring the Air Force remains postured to execute extended-duration, long-range strike missions in highly contested environments,”

The Air Force plans to build at least 100 B-21s in variants with and without pilots.

only 100??

“The first operational B-21 is slated to arrive at Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, in 2027.

The program’s increase in production will begin gradually with the expected full production rate of seven aircraft per year.“