Summary
Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota has upgraded its runway to prepare for the arrival of the B-21 Raider, a new nuclear-capable bomber. This project is part of a broader plan to modernize U.S. nuclear forces, which includes deploying new bombers and upgrading missile systems.
Key Facts
- Ellsworth Air Force Base is preparing to host the B-21 Raider, a nuclear-capable stealth bomber.
- The base's runway upgrade cost $129.5 million and finished with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
- The B-21 Raider is part of the U.S. nuclear triad, meant to deter threats with nuclear forces.
- The project aims to ensure the base's operational capacity for the next 50 years.
- The upgrade used 106,000 tons of concrete for the runway's reconstruction.
- B-1B bombers and 800 airmen from Ellsworth temporarily relocated to North Dakota during construction.
- The U.S. Air Force plans to have at least 100 B-21 bombers to replace older models like the B-1B and B-2.
- Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri and Dyess Air Force Base in Texas will also host B-21 bombers.
