The Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit stands as a potent symbol of American Air Force strength, but its fleet is facing a reduction. Recent reports reveal that one of the B-2 Spirits will not undergo upgrades but will instead be divested, decreasing the fleet size to 19. This decision comes as Northrop Grumman secures a $7 billion contract to overhaul the B-2 fleet, ensuring their operational capability until the 2030s.
Despite its advanced technology and stealth capabilities, the B-2 Spirit comes with a hefty price tag, making it the most expensive aircraft in US service. This high cost led to the premature end of the program, resulting in only 21 B-2s being built. Losing even one of these aircraft represents a significant loss to the Air Force.
The decision to divest one B-2 was outlined in the Department of Defense 2025 Budget Request, citing a ground accident or damage deemed uneconomical to repair. While only two B-2s have recently sustained damage, it’s likely that the aircraft to be divested is the one involved in an accident at Whiteman Air Force Base.
Plans to keep the remaining B-2 fleet operational until the 2030s remain intact, with the Air Force investing heavily in their overhaul. The B-2 Spirit remains the world’s sole strategic stealth bomber in active service, capable of penetrating enemy air defenses for deep strikes.
However, the completion of the overhaul program and the arrival of the B-21 Raider may influence the timeline for the B-2’s retirement. Until then, these aircraft will continue to play a crucial role in national defense despite their significant maintenance costs.
