B-2 Spirit Bomber Costs $130,000-$150,000 per Flight Hour; B-21 Raider Set for Cost Reduction
DEFENSE
The B-2 Spirit bomber incurs costs of $130,000 to $150,000 per flight hour, making it the second most expensive aircraft after the Boeing E-4B. The upcoming B-21 Raider aims to reduce flight hour costs to approximately $65,000 while enhancing maintenance efficiency.
The B-2 requires 50 to 60 maintenance hours per flight hour, with its specialized radar-absorbing material degrading under environmental conditions. The B-21's design allows for easier deployment and maintenance, utilizing a next-generation coating and modular systems. The Air Force plans to procure at least 100 B-21s, ensuring a stable supply chain and lower costs.

Feb 24, 2026, 6:26 PM