Plane of the Day: B-21 Raider

The B-21 Raider is, in essence, the younger brother of the B-2 Spirit. While significantly smaller, the newer B-21 is the most advanced bomber ever produced. It can fly both manned and unmanned missions. With its advanced stealth features that make it nearly invisible to radar, and its very long range, the B-21 can infiltrate deep into enemy territory and unload its massive bomb payload without being noticed. It can also operate at extremely high altitudes to further avoid detection.

Specifications (Mostly Classified)

Country of Origin: United States

Type: Long-Range Strategic Stealth Bomber

Max Speed: Classified (Publicly described as "high subsonic")

Armament: Munitions: Capable of delivering a broad mix of both conventional and nuclear weapons. Payload: Classified (However, it is expected to carry the new AGM-181 LRSO cruise missile and various direct-attack munitions like JDAMs.)

Range: Classified (Publicly described as "long-range," with "intercontinental" capability, implying it can strike any target on Earth with aerial refueling.)

Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW): Classified (It is reportedly smaller than the B-2 Spirit.)

Service Ceiling: Classified (Expected to be similar to the B-2's 50,000 ft or higher.)

Powerplant: Classified (Reportedly a non-afterburning turbofan engine, likely a variant of the Pratt & Whitney F135 engine used in the F-35.)

Length: Classified

Wingspan: Classified

Height: Classified

Crew: 2 (Designed to be able to accommodate manned or unmanned operations)