The U.S. Air Force is taking significant steps to extend the service life of its B-1 Lancer and B-2 Spirit bombers, according to a statement made by Gen. Stephen L. Davis, commander of the Air Force Global Strike Command. This decision comes as part of efforts to maintain the fleet’s readiness while the Air Force continues to develop the B-21 Raider, its next-generation stealth bomber.

During a panel discussion at the Air & Space Forces Association’s 2026 Air, Space & Cyber Conference, Davis highlighted that experienced pilots from the B-1 and B-2 will likely be among the first to pilot the new B-21 aircraft. The B-21 is scheduled for delivery to Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota in 2027, with plans to replace the aging B-1 and B-2 fleets over the coming decades with at least 100 units of the new bomber.

In addition to the extension of these bombers, the Air Force is also implementing the Bomber Supplemental Trainer for Aircrew Readiness (BSTAR) program. This initiative aims to address flight-hour readiness gaps for B-1 pilots by utilizing HondaJet Elite light business jets provided by XSTAR Aviation. Davis explained that this program allows pilots to accumulate flight hours, which is crucial for maintaining their skills, especially as some bomber airframes face readiness issues.

While the exact duration of the service life extension for the B-1 and B-2 has not been disclosed, the Air Force is committed to modernizing and investing in these aircraft in the coming years. Both bombers are expected to remain operational until the B-21 is fully ready for combat.

Recently, the Air Force launched the North Star Readiness Campaign, aimed at increasing the number of mission-capable B-52 Stratofortress and B-1 bombers. This campaign focuses on accelerating the delivery of parts, engineering support, and depot maintenance to enhance overall operational readiness.