According to a statement from manufacturer Northrop Grumman, after the delivery of the first five batches, the price of the B-21 Raiden is likely to increase for US government acquisitions.
The first five batches, which include a total of 21 aircraft, are being purchased at a fixed price under the contract made between Northrop and the US Armed Forces in 2015.
Earlier this year, Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall said during a Senate Appropriations subcommittee hearing that the unit cost of the B-21 is decreasing after negotiations with Northrop Grumman. Although current unit costs for the bomber have not been released due to their classified nature, the B-21 procurement budget for fiscal year 2025 has been adjusted to reflect positive negotiations that resulted in lower initial production prices.
While the Raider's exact unit price is not known, several reports suggest that, based on current rates, the price may have exceeded $700 million. Additionally, the USAF (US Air Force) reduced its Raider program budget projections to $2,7 billion in fiscal year 2025, compared to $4 billion the previous year.
This situation puts the Air Force in a dilemma, as its initial plan was to have a fleet of 100 B-21s to spread the costs. With current trends, the price may inevitably increase, which may result in a reduction in future orders and a smaller fleet.
US Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall stated that the quantities and scope of the program were not modified in the fiscal year 2025 budget. However, due to the program's high level of secrecy and classification, we have no information about the Air Force's plans. Air beyond the first 40 aircraft. Meanwhile, the service remains focused on the test campaign and launch of the new bomber.
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