In testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin indicated that new technologies may supplant the B-21 Raider by the late 2030s. He emphasized the importance of credible combat capacity in mass due to the scale of threats in multiple regions and the unique role bombers play. The B-21 plays a crucial role in missions that span the operational spectrum, from deterring adversaries in times of peace to striking targets deep behind enemy lines in times of conflict. The U.S. is the only free-world nation with bombers, and long-range missiles are not a substitute due to cost and vulnerability.
Despite the value the Air Force’s bomber force provides, it has been singled out for cuts in recent decades. Currently, the U.S. has an estimated 141 bombers, with only about 59 available for combat at any given time. The aging bomber force faces challenges in improving its long-range strike capability and capacity. The B-21 represents the only pathway for the U.S. military to regain this capability and should be a priority due to technological advancements and cost-effectiveness.
The B-21 program has been executing well, delivering capabilities close to the original schedule and costs. Considering budget constraints, the Air Force may be facing pressure to reconsider the B-21 program, despite its success. Secretary Kendall emphasized the need to address threats from nations like China, underscoring the importance of procuring B-21s at a rate and scale that align with pragmatic demand. Now is not the time to wait for future theoretical solutions, as the B-21 remains a crucial asset for national defense.
