U.S. Air Force Wants Vertical Takeoff Bomber as Alternative to B-21 Raider

The U.S. Air Force has unveiled plans to test a prototype vertical takeoff and landing bomber for long-range strike missions.

The program is being carried out on behalf of the U.S. Air Force’s Global Strike Command and is being considered as an alternative to the B-21 Raider, according to Aviation Week.

According to the solicitation documents, the concept calls for the development of an aircraft with a liquid-fuel rocket engine that, after a vertical takeoff, will carry out its mission at high speed and return to base.

The U.S. Air Force plans to select a developer quickly and sign a contract within 30-45 days after the August 4 deadline for submitting proposals.

The project by New Frontier Aerospace, which is developing the Pathfinder unmanned aircraft and preparing for its testing, best meets the military’s requirements.

In 2027, the U.S. Air Force will begin a study to determine the requirements for the future modernization of the B-52 Stratofortress and for the New Heavy Bomber program.

According to current plans, the B-52 Stratofortress is expected to remain in service until at least 2050.