DAF, Northrop Grumman break ground on B-21 production facility

The DAF alongside Northrop Grumman broke ground on the new final assembly line at Air Force Plant 42, marking a significant step toward expanding production capacity for the B-21 Raider and delivering combat capability to the Joint Force faster.<br /> <img alt="Left to right, William Bailey, performing the duties of the assistant secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics; Chris Adams, manager, Northrop Grumman B-21 Program; Gen. Dale White, director, Critical Major Weapon Systems for the Department of War; Maj. Gen. Peter Bonetti, director, Air Force Global Strike Command Strategic Plans, Programs and Requirements; and Col. Nicholas Jordan, director, U.S. Air Force B-21 System Program, stand for a photo in front of a construction site, Palmdale, California, Sept. 29, 2026. The Department of the Air Force and Northrop Grumman broke ground on the new final assembly line at Air Force Plant 42, marking a significant step toward expanding production capacity for the B-21 Raider and delivering combat capability to the Joint Force faster. (Courtesy photo by Northrop Grumman)" src="https://media.defense.gov/2026/Oct/07/2004013168/300/300/0/260929-F-F3227-5126.JPG" /> <br />