Strategic Bombers: A US-Russia-China race on the front line
The world is entering a new stage of the aerial arms race, centered on the development of the next generation of long-range strategic bombers.
While the United States prepares to deploy its new stealth B-21 Raider, both China and Russia are working on similar programs aimed at challenging America’s decades-long dominance.
China’s H-20: Toward regional and global deterrence
The H-20 is expected to become China’s first dedicated strategic bomber. Although Beijing remains secretive, leaked images from Chinese media suggest a stealth design resembling that of American bombers.
What raises concern is its estimated range of around 8,500 kilometers, which would put strategic targets in Japan, the Philippines, and even the US base in Guam within reach. This breakthrough would grant Beijing a level of deterrence power it has never possessed before, both regionally and internationally.
Russia’s PAK-DA: an ambitious but delayed project
Despite its heavy involvement in the war in Ukraine, the Kremlin continues to push forward with the PAK-DA project, developed by Tupolev in cooperation with Russia’s long-range aviation forces.
The design is reported to be similar to the US B-2 Spirit, granting it significant stealth capabilities and a reduced radar cross-section. Reports suggest it could achieve a range of nearly 12,000 kilometers and carry over 30 tons of weaponry, including conventional missiles, nuclear payloads, and even advanced hypersonic systems.
However, the project faces serious challenges. International sanctions limit Russia’s access to advanced technology and materials needed for stealth and communication systems, while the ongoing war consumes vast economic resources, restricting funding for ambitious military programs.
Nevertheless, Moscow’s persistence reflects its determination to maintain its nuclear deterrence triad as a central pillar of its defense strategy.
The United States and the B-21 Raider: safeguarding technological supremacy
On the American side, the B-21 Raider, developed by Northrop Grumman, is seen as the rightful successor to the US nuclear-capable bomber fleet.
Available information suggests a more compact design with shorter wings, enhanced stealth features, and cutting-edge electronic systems superior to all previous bombers. Its estimated range of around 12,000 kilometers would allow it to strike strategic targets across the globe.
The B-21 is designed with flexible payload capabilities between 12 and 13 tons, enabling it to carry modern nuclear cruise missiles such as the LRSO, as well as heavy bunker-busting bombs like the MOP.
Its open-architecture design ensures continuous upgrades, allowing it to adapt to new technological and strategic challenges. Furthermore, it is built to operate seamlessly within an integrated combat network alongside drones and satellites, enhancing mission effectiveness in hostile environments.
The US objective is clear: to maintain a technological gap that relegates Chinese and Russian bombers to second-tier status, securing American air dominance for decades to come.
