US Air Force Urged to Build 200 New B-21 Bombers to Counter China’s Growing Threat

Washington: The United States Air Force may need a rapid expansion to maintain its strategic edge over China, according to a new report. Experts are urging the Pentagon to commission 200 new B-21 bombers, citing the growing threat posed by China’s military capabilities.

The B-21 Raider, a sixth-generation stealth bomber, is designed to evade advanced radar systems and carry nuclear weapons over long distances. A think tank supporting the U.S. Air Force has warned that the current bomber fleet is insufficient to handle a future conflict with China, particularly for strategic long-range missions.

Capability Gap Against China

The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies report highlights that in a potential war over Taiwan or other regional allies, the U.S. would require a significantly larger bomber force to strike deep into Chinese territory. Current post–Cold War fighter jets are not adequate to penetrate Chinese defenses or contain the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

The report emphasizes that the U.S. Air Force is losing its ability to neutralize PLA long-range missile and air threats from within China’s operational hubs, limiting America’s capacity to prevent Chinese aggression and secure victory in a conflict.

Offensive Strength as the Best Defense

“A strong offense is the best defense,” the report notes. Strategic strikes targeting Chinese military leadership, command-and-control systems, and long-range combat capabilities are critical for successful U.S. operations in the Western Pacific. Without bolstered offensive power, current military strategies may fall short.

Expanding Advanced Aircraft Production

The report also calls for the production of 300 new sixth-generation F-47 fighter jets. Together with the B-21 bombers, the F-47s would enhance U.S. operational reach, enabling strikes against high-value targets in China and neutralizing PLA missile capabilities. The combined fleet is seen as essential to maintaining U.S. air superiority in a potential conflict scenario.