Raider of the lost art: Image just released of USAF's new B-21 stealth bomber

A new photograph has been released of the B-21 Raider – the next-gen strategic bomber that is being developed for the US Air Force.

The image was released by manufacturer Northrop Grumman as it received the Aviation Week Grand Laureate Award in the defence category for its role as the prime contractor to deliver the aircraft to the USAF.

However, while the photo has not been made public until now, it is believed to have been taken ahead of the Raider's rollout ceremony back in 2022.

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"On behalf of the entire nationwide B-21 Raider team, Northrop Grumman is honoured to receive this prestigious award," said vice president Tom Jones.

"The Grand Laureate represents the pioneering spirit, innovative technology and trailblazing approach to contract management that has brought the world's first sixth-generation aircraft to life."

It was only last autumn that the USAF confirmed the first B-21 had begun flight testing.

The Raider is currently undergoing a thorough series of tests that is being carried out by the B-21 Combined Test Force at Edwards Air Force Base in California.

Northrop Grumman explained how the B-21 had been developed with the next generation of stealth technology, advanced networking capabilities and open systems architecture.

Capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear payloads, it will serve as the backbone of the United States' bomber fleet.

It will replace the B-1 Lancer and B-2 Spirit and, according to a report by the Congressional Research Service, could replace the B-52 Stratofortress as well.

The company said it would be one of the most effective aircraft in the sky, with the ability to use a broad mix of stand-off and direct attack munitions.