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B-21 Raider demonstrates first weapon release as Air Force targets operational status next year

The U.S. Air Force and Northrop Grumman say the B-21 Raider has released a conventional weapon during a test flight from Edwards Air Force Base, advancing the stealth bomber into weapons testing. The milestone comes as the Air Force continues to aim for the aircraft to become operational next year.

Discovered 2026-11-13T07:28:23.903257-08:00 | 2026-11-13T07:28:23.903257-08:00

Briefing

What Hype is tracking

The first demonstrated weapons release moves the B-21 beyond basic flight testing and adds a key milestone to the program’s test campaign.
The Air Force is still targeting operational status next year, leaving a tight schedule as weapons testing begins.

Reported By

The War Zone UK Defence Journal Aviation Week defence-industry.eu The Aviationist Northrop Grumman