First clear look at US B-21 Raider in flight testing - PHOTOS

On April 14, 2026, the Air Force publicly confirmed that the B-21 Raider recently conducted aerial refueling from a KC-135 as part of its ongoing test and evaluation program carried out jointly with Northrop Grumman at Edwards Air Force Base in California, News.Az reports, citing The Aviationist.

The service released two photographs from the testing activity, including one that for the first time provides a clear view of the bomber’s upper surface, offering a closer look at its distinctive air intakes and dorsal aerial refueling receptacle.

The refueling system appears to differ from that of the B-2 Spirit, featuring a two-piece clamshell door configuration rather than a rotating design.

Some other interesting details can be noticed: the presence of markings just behind the cockpit side windows; in front of the cockpit there are air data ports similar to those used by the B-21; moreover, the walkway markings are also visible.

“The program’s progress exemplifies the principles of the Department of the Air Force’s transformed acquisition approach, which is focused on delivering integrated warfighting capability at speed,” says the service in an article published on the official website.

“The B-21 program is the leading edge of the acquisition mindset we are instilling across the force. Every test proves the success of empowering our leaders to deliver integrated capability from the start,” said Gen. Dale White, Department of War direct reporting portfolio manager for critical major weapon systems. “The program’s use of digital engineering and modern production processes is delivering a mature, highly capable system, giving us confidence as we continue to smartly scale our production capacity at the speed of relevance.”

Source: US Air Force

“The B-21 program is the leading edge of the acquisition mindset we are instilling across the force. Every test proves the success of empowering our leaders to deliver integrated capability from the start,” said Gen. Dale White, Department of War direct reporting portfolio manager for critical major weapon systems. “The program’s use of digital engineering and modern production processes is delivering a mature, highly capable system, giving us confidence as we continue to smartly scale our production capacity at the speed of relevance.”

“The B-21’s fuel efficiency is one of the core components of its lethality” said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach. “This long-range strike bomber will reduce the demand on our tanker fleet and free up assets to support the joint force. This will provide a wider range of employment options and the deterrence our nation requires.”

The war in Iran has once again shown how the ability to refuel bombers in-flight is crucial in projecting power globally from both CONUS (Continental US) as well as overseas forward operating bases.