During the test mission, the next-generation stealth bomber received fuel from an NKC-135 aerial refueling aircraft. The refueling operation occurred at flight level FL230, approximately 7 kilometers above the ground.
According to available information, the test flight lasted five hours and thirty-three minutes. The bomber connected to the tanker’s refueling boom during the mission, demonstrating an important operational capability for long-range missions.
The tanker involved in the operation was NKC-135 aircraft serial number 61-0320. The aircraft is assigned to Edwards Air Force Base and is used for specialized flight-testing activities.
The test mission was accompanied by additional aircraft supporting data collection and monitoring activities. Two F-16 fighter jets equipped for gathering and transmitting test data accompanied the bomber and tanker.
A Douglas NC9D test support aircraft, registration number N879AD, also participated in the operation. The aircraft operates from Mojave and provides additional support for flight-testing programs in the region.
— T. Ace (@minor_triad) March 10, 2026
At least two B-21 Raider prototypes are currently undergoing testing at Edwards Air Force Base. The first prototype completed its maiden flight in November 2023.
Following that flight, the aircraft transferred from Northrop Grumman’s facilities in Palmdale to Edwards for further evaluation and testing. A second prototype joined the flight-test program on September 11, 2025.
The B-21 Raider is the United States’ next-generation stealth bomber designed to replace older strategic aircraft in the U.S. Air Force fleet. The aircraft is expected to play a central role in future long-range strike and strategic deterrence missions.
According to current plans, the first operational B-21 aircraft are scheduled to enter service in 2027. They will initially be based at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota.
