Discussion on the global race to develop Next-Generation fighter jets and now, strategic bombers.
The strategic bomber development race is restricted to a very small number of countries due to its complexity and cost.
The US, having developed the first operational stealth bomber (B2 Spirit), has released images of its successor, the B21 Raider.
Russia and China are also pushing their next-generation bomber programs.
Focus on the aircraft making up future bomber fleets from advanced new platforms to older designs.
History of Strategic Bombers
Evolution of strategic bombers from World War I Zeppelin airships to World War II heavy bombers.
Post-WWII to Cold War: Bomber capacity and range increased significantly, culminating in aircraft like the B52 and the B36 Peacemaker.
Developments during the Cold War focused on range, payload, and the transition to jet propulsion.
Emergence of missile technology and sophisticated air defenses reduced the strategic edge of bombers.
Some nations (e.g., the UK) phased out bombers, while others (US, USSR) developed new capabilities (e.g., supersonic bombers, stealth technology).
The Role and Decision to Invest in Strategic Bombers
Only three countries (currently) maintain strategic bombers due to the cost, complexity, and necessity of such a capability.
Heavy bombers offer unique attributes like range, payload capacity, flexibility, and special survivability features.
Investment decisions are influenced by factors like cost, alternative systems, multi-role performance, production scale, and specific national defense needs.
Current Strategic Bomber Fleets
The US, Russia, and China are the primary operators of strategic bombers.
Types of current bombers:
Subsonic bomb trucks and missile carriers: B52, Tu-95, H-6.
Supersonic bombers: B1, Tu-22M, Tu-160.
Stealth bombers: Currently, only the B2 Spirit in service.
Trends indicate a mix of old and new aircraft to balance cost and capability.
Next-Generation Strategic Bombers
Common Features and Technologies
Emphasis on stealth technology with subsonic flying wing designs.
Integration of unmanned systems (drones) for enhanced capability.
Advanced sensors and electronic systems improvement.
Optionally manned configurations for varying mission risk.
Long-term platform thinking with potential multi-role capabilities.
US: The B21 Raider
Evolutionary development from the B2 but designed for easier upgrades and lower costs.
Managed and built with efficiency: on budget, on time, and with a focus on lifecycle sustainment.
First images and flight tests released, indicating progress towards production and service.
China: The H-20
Aimed to be a revolutionary step with stealth and long-range capabilities.
Likely to significantly enhance China's strategic reach and survivability.
Development information sparse but critical to observe given the PLA's strategic needs.
Russia: The Prospective Aviation Complex for Long-Range Aviation (PAK DA)
Designed to be a subsonic stealthy bomber with significant technological advancement for Russian industry.
Multiple delays and uncertainties make the program’s realization and effectiveness questionable.
Mixed Fleets and Classic Designs
US Future Bomber Force
Future force structure to include the B21 and upgraded B52 bombers.
B1 and B2 eventually phased out.
Focused on a mix of stealth and high payload capacity for global power projection.
China's Plan
Continues to utilize the H6 for missile carriage and introduces the H20 for long-range, high-survivability missions.
Emphasis on a two-type force for operational flexibility.
Russia's Mixed Fleet
Retains various designs: Tu95, Tu22M, Tu160 in addition to developing the PAK DA.
Complex mix raises questions on feasibility and cost-effectiveness.
Conclusion
The next-generation bomber race involves advanced technology and complex strategic decisions.
Future bomber fleets are likely to be a blend of advanced stealth platforms and upgraded older designs.
Success depends on balancing innovation, cost, and operational needs.
Additional Notes
The US Air Force's innovative palletized missile deployment system called Rapid Dragon.
Strategic bombers play diverse roles in defense ecosystems, being versatile tools for national strategy.