The US Air Force (USAF) released two more new images of the B-21 Raider, a 6th generation stealth bomber developed by Northrop Grumman. One of the photos shows the aircraft for the first time from a side angle, revealing still unknown aspects of the project.
Already bearing the insignia of Edwards Air Force Base, where it will soon be tested, the first B-21 was equipped with a flight pitot tube to the left of the front landing gear.
There are also several markings on the fuselage, such as the emergency area, ejection seats, as well as points that may involve sensors.
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The three-quarter view of the bomber, taken outdoors, also makes it possible to notice the in-flight refueling receptacle, protections around the engine exhausts and the exotic design of the plane’s windows and windshield.
The B-21’s control surfaces are also visible for the first time, with three independent sets responsible for roll, pitch and yaw movements.
The USAF also released a frontal image of a Raider inside a hangar, but there is no way to check whether it is the same test aircraft – Northrop Grumman has some bombers in production in Palmdale, California.
On Tuesday, Northrop Grumman also confirmed that the B-21 has commenced engine runs as part of its ground test program. The manufacturer also released an unprecedented image of the bomber.
The first flight of the B-21 Raider should take place around the end of the year. The aircraft will then be flown to Edwards, where major development testing will take place.
The U.S. Air Force expects to receive the first stealth bombers by mid-decade as it retires the B-1B Lancer and B-2 Spirit.
