The first B-21 stealth bomber has entered its ground testing phase ahead of a public roll-out and first flight this year.

Randall Walden, director of the Air Force’s Rapid Capabilities Office, confirmed the news on the sidelines of the Air Force Association’s Air Warfare Symposium in Orlando, Florida, reports Air Force Magazine.

The B-21 Raider is undergoing callibration tests that will make sure the aircraft can cope with the pressures and stresses of flight in different conditions. 

Darlene Costello, principal deputy assistant secretary of the Air Force for acquisition, technology and logistics, also stated at the conference that with the start of testing, “we are on track for first flight, we’re holding to our schedule."

Walden confirmed "we've taken the first one out" of production. "It’s got landing gear. … It’s got wheels on it. … It’s got the wings on it. It really looks like a bomber."

The loads calibration test ensures the B-21 “is designed and built to what we actually meant it to do.” "That gives us great insight into, ‘Did the actual design meet our needs, and did the manufacturing of that meet our needs?’”

Northrop Grumman responded to the next phase in the B-21's development in a statement to Aviation Week: "“Our first test aircraft has moved from the line and entered formal ground test. That’s a testament to the speed and efficiency we’re achieving on the program."

US Air Force secretary, Frank Kendall, also said at a roundtable of reporters at the conference said he’s satisfied with the B-21′s progress so far, reports Defense News. 

Kendal commented: “At least at this stage of the game, the B-21′s moving forward really well."

www.northropgrumman.com