DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The Air Force has selected Dyess Air Force Base as one of three reasonable alternatives to host the new B-21 Raider aircraft scheduled for arrival at installations in the mid-2020s.
The other two bases are Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota, and Whiteman AFB, Missouri. As reasonable alternatives, these bases will be further evaluated for environmental impact and other requirements before a final decision is made, possibly as early as 2019.
To meet the estimated timelines for military construction required at installations that will receive the B-21, the Air Force must begin its environmental analysis as soon as possible.
“It is imperative that the Air Force continues to modernize its fleet,” said Col. Brandon Parker, 7th Bomb Wing commander. “Air Force leadership has said current bomber bases will remain bomber bases, and we are thrilled that Dyess is still in the running to receive this next generation bomber.”
Air Force officials have said using current bomber bases will minimize operational impact, reduce overload, maximize re-use of facilities and minimize cost.
The Air Force has stated a need for a minimum of 100 B-21s, with planning for B-1B Lancers and B-2 Spirit retirement occurring once there are enough B-21s to replace them. Actual delivery and retirement timelines will depend on the B-21 production and delivery schedule.
For more information, contact the 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs Office at (325) 696-4820 or email 7bw.pa.pa@us.af.mil. If after 4:30 p.m., call 325-267-5222.