U.S. Air Force decides two‑pilot crew for B‑21 Raider bomber

The U.S. Air Force announced that the B‑21 Raider, its newest long‑range stealth bomber, will operate with a two‑pilot crew consisting of a pilot and a Weapon Systems Officer (WSO). The decision follows analysis of the aircraft’s advanced capabilities and a talent‑management strategy to retain expertise within the weapons‑system and combat‑systems officer communities. Selected WSOs will undergo pilot training before assignment to the B‑21.

The B‑21 is a dual‑capable, low‑observable strategic bomber designed to deliver conventional and nuclear weapons and to operate in highly contested environments. It will join the B‑52 fleet as part of the future bomber force, with a planned minimum inventory of 100 aircraft and an estimated unit cost of about $750 million. The aircraft first flew on 10 November 2023 and will be based initially at Ellsworth Air Force Base, with other locations under consideration. The two‑person crew model reflects the Air Force’s view that advanced automation and artificial‑intelligence support enable a lean crew to execute complex long‑range strike missions.