The Smart Marty Sky Dispatch
Even At Half The Cost, The B-21 Will Still Be Pricier Per Hour Than A Jumbo Jet
Analyzing the USAF's cost-cutting measures on its sixth-generation bomber.
The US Air Force is taking delivery of its first sixth-generation stealth bomber, the Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider. The aircraft is described as stealthier, more rugged, and more technologically equipped than the B-2 Spirit.
Officials indicate the B-21 is expected to cost about $65,000 per flight hour, which is stated as half the price of the B-2’s hourly cost. The claim positions the B-21 as cheaper to operate on an hourly basis compared to its predecessor.
The information comes from Simple Flying, referencing the cost comparison for the B-21’s operating hour. The report notes the aircraft’s generation and the general expectation of cost efficiency relative to the B-2.
The source material does not provide specific deployment dates, locations, or detailed operational outcomes for the B-21. It also does not include aircraft specifications beyond the general description of being sixth-generation and stealthier than the B-2.