The U.S. Air Force is exploring options to give its bombers air-to-air combat capabilities, according to a long-term fighter force structure report submitted to Congress last week. The service has raised the possibility of B-21 Raiders performing the role, potentially alongside Collaborative Combat Aircraft drones; other bombers could also be considered.
WHO:The U.S. Air Force
WHAT:The U.S. Air Force is exploring adding air-to-air combat capabilities to its bombers.
WHEN:Reported Oct 22, 2026 at 5:31 PM ET
WHERE:USA
WHY:The service is considering bombers as another way to bolster its air-to-air combat capacity.
Reporting from 1 identified publisher for this event.
