Northrop Grumman to build America’s next stealth bomber

28 Oct 2015

The next stealth bomber could become operational by 20205

The US Air Force has selected aviation giant Northrop Grumman as its partner to create the next Long-Range Strike Bomber.

It is understood that the aircraft – designated the Long-Range Strike Bomber (LRS-B) – will cost $564m per unit and the first aircraft are aimed to go operational in 2025.

Northrop Grumman was understood to be locked in a battle against a consortium consisting of Lockheed Martin and Boeing for the lucrative contract.

The company was willing to go out all-guns-blazing for the deal and even took the unorthodox step of running a glitzy ad during the last Super Bowl.

It is the latest development in a 35-year partnership with the US Air Force.

“The Air Force has made the right decision for our nation’s security,” said Wes Bush, chairman, CEO and president of Northrop Grumman.

“As the company that developed and delivered the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, we look forward to providing the Air Force with a highly capable and affordable next generation Long-Range Strike Bomber.

“Our team has the resources in place to execute this important programme, and we’re ready to get to work,” Bush added.

Stealth bomber image via Shutterstock

John Kennedy is a journalist who served as editor of Silicon Republic for 17 years

editorial@siliconrepublic.com