Northrop Grumman has clinched a pivotal $7 billion contract with the U.S. Air Force to modernize and maintain the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber fleet, a critical component of the nation’s strategic defense capabilities.

According to the Pentagon notice, the contract’s performance period is scheduled to extend until 2029.

The Air Force tentatively intends to phase out the dual-capable B-2 bomber in the early 2030s, with plans to replace it with the B-21 Raider, another Northrop Grumman aircraft. This award could potentially mark one of the final contracts for the renowned stealth bomber.

The Pentagon announced the deal, emphasizing that the arrangement includes a host of upgrades and logistical elements.

The contract involves “sustaining engineering, software maintenance, support equipment,” along with programmed depot maintenance and interim contractor support.

Jerry McBrearty, Northrop Grumman’s director and acting B-2 program manager, stated in a release, “Through collaboration with the Air Force, Northrop Grumman is dedicated to ensuring the B-2 Spirit fleet maintains its operational readiness. The $7 billion Flexible Acquisition Sustainment Team III contract award underscores our pledge to enhance the B-2’s sustainment efforts while advancing aircraft modernization to align with the requirements of the U.S. Air Force.”

The B-2 is recognized for its significant operational capabilities, including the deployment of advanced weaponry like the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile – Extended Range (JASSM-ER).

Enhancements to the B-2 also feature the Radar Aided Targeting System (RATS) and updates to the communication systems.

On top of this, the bomber will undergo a comprehensive cockpit upgrade, promising advanced graphics processors and modern displays.

This serves the broader goal to maintain the stealth bomber’s cutting-edge status in the aerial warfare domain.

With an estimated price of over $2 billion per unit, the Spirit is the priciest military plane ever produced.

Following the Cold War’s end and the program’s substantial costs, the fleet currently consists of 20 operational B-2s.

This latest contract signals a substantial investment of roughly $350 million per aircraft for its sustainment and modernization.

The B-21 Raider, the next-generation stealth bomber also developed by Northrop Grumman, is expected to take the baton from the B-2 in the early 2030s. The Air Force anticipates acquiring at least 100 B-21s, which will eventually phase out the B-2 and B-1 Lancer.

Work for the B-2’s revamp is expected to be performed across multiple locations, with Palmdale, California being the primary site, involving Whiteman AFB, Missouri, Tinker AFB, Oklahoma, and other bases nationwide.

Relevant articles:
– Northrop wins $7 billion Air Force contract for more B, Breaking Defense
– Northrop Grumman Wins $7B for B-2 Modernization, DefenseMirror.com
– Northrop Grumman Wins $7 Billion Air Force Contract for B-2 Modernization and Sustainment, Security Clearance Jobs
– Northrop Grumman lands $7bn contract for B, Air Force Technology