A large aircraft has been observed flying over McConnell Air Force Base in Kansas, prompting speculation that it could be the B-21 Raider, a highly classified stealth bomber.
The sighting, captured on video Tuesday near Wichita Air Force Base, showed a substantial gray plane resembling a stealth bomber gliding through the air.
Though the exact identity of the aircraft remains unclear, many believe it was conducting a test flight of the B-21 Raider due to its location near the military facility.
This new aircraft is described as a “nuclear-capable penetrating stealth bomber” and is estimated to cost around $692 million each, according to Air Force reports.
One observer noted, “It seems most probable that this is a new American stealth bomber, the B-21 Raider.” This comment referenced a reflection from the aircraft that reportedly matched known details. However, he also suggested it could theoretically be an unacknowledged RQ-170 or RQ-180 drone.
Conversely, some have claimed that the plane appeared to more closely resemble the older B-2 bomber, which is occasionally seen refueling at McConnell.
The B-21 Raider represents the first new long-range bomber developed in the U.S. since the B-2. Recent flight tests for the Raider have taken place at Edwards Air Force Base in California.
Manufactured by Northrop Grumman, the B-21 is celebrated as the world’s first sixth-generation aircraft. The contract for its production was awarded in 2015, and it’s named in honor of the Doolittle Raiders, who famously attacked Japan during World War II. The aircraft is anticipated to be unveiled publicly in 2022.
Mental speculation remains regarding the timeline for the B-21’s entry into service, with many details still shrouded in secrecy. The Air Force, however, has indicated its plan to acquire at least 100 B-21s to complement its existing fleet of 76 upgraded B-52 Stratofortresses.
