Why The B-21 Raider's Flying-Wing Shape Creates Unique Design Tradeoffs

The Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider is the world's first sixth-generation stealth bomber. Its low-observable flying-wing design represents a highly optimized compromise between extreme all-aspect stealth and endurance. Eliminating a traditional fuselage and tail removes the largest radar-reflecting surfaces, giving it 360-degree stealth across multiple radar bands. Furthermore, the unique aerodynamic efficiency of the 'Flying Dorito' unlocks massive unrefueled global combat ranges.