Flying Wing Arsenal Plane Packed With Air-To-Air Missiles Eyed By USAF: Report
The Air Force is examining the use of a flying wing that totes dozens of air-to-air missiles to support fighter operations.
Thomas Newdick, Tyler Rogoway
Published Sep 29, 2025 6:45 PM EDT
USAF eyes large flying wing arsenal ship.
The U.S. Air Force is reportedly examining the possibility of fielding stealthy flying-wing aircraft that could serve as ‘arsenal planes’ loaded with air-to-air missiles. The broader concept is one that we have discussed in the past, including in relation to a version of the B-21 Raider stealth bomber. According to an article from Air & Space Forces Magazine, the Air Force is also considering other potential flying-wing platforms to fill this air-to-air role.
A senior Air Force official told Air & Space Forces Magazine that this kind of arsenal plane was being studied as part of the Air Force’s plans for how to deal with a high-intensity conflict fought with China in the Indo-Pacific region. The stealthy flying-wing aircraft would be armed with “dozens” of air-to-air missiles, the article states.
The second pre-production B-21 seen arriving at Edwards Air Force Base, California, earlier this month. USAF
According to a former top Air Force official speaking to Air & Space Forces Magazine, “there wasn’t a compelling argument” for an air-to-air version of the B-21 in the past, even though it had been discussed. But the prospect of an air war with China and its rapidly evolving air combat capabilities seems to have changed that stance.
https://www.twz.com/air/flying-wing-arsenal-plane-packed-with-air-to-air-missiles-eyed-by-usaf-report
