Senator Schmitt Applauds USAF Approval of Whiteman Air Force Base as Second Operating Base for B-21 Raider

WASHINGTON – Recently, the United States Air Force approved Whiteman AFB to be the second operating base for the upcoming B-21 Raider, the eventual replacement for the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber:

“Whiteman Air Force base is a critical aspect of the United States’ nuclear triad, and a vital piece to our nuclear deterrence. I am not only proud to represent Whiteman’s interests here in the Senate, but equally proud of the rich military history and culture the State of Missouri boasts as a whole. The Air Force’s decision to select Whiteman Air Force Base as the second operating base for the B-21 Raider ensures that Whiteman will continue its important work maintaining, flying, and training on the stealth bomber. I will continue my work here in Washington to ensure all Missouri military installations are up to date and prepared for whatever threat the United States may face in the future,” said Senator Eric Schmitt. 

BACKGROUND:

• The B-21 Raider is the most advanced military aircraft in the world, the next evolution of the U.S. Air Force strategic bomber fleet and the world’s first “sixth generation” aircraft. 
• Senator Schmitt visited Whiteman Air Force Base in August 2023 to discuss how he could use his position on the Senate Armed Services Committee to best position Whiteman to be MOB 2 for the B-21.
• Senator Schmitt was proud to support the committee mark for the FY 24 and FY 25 NDAA, which included billions of dollars for the B-21 bomber, the world’s most advanced military aircraft and first operational sixth-generation aircraft.

Senator Schmitt has a strong record of securing funding for Missouri military bases, including:  

• $121.4 million for B-2 operations and support at Whiteman Airforce Base.
• $50 million for housing at Fort Leonard Wood.
• $28 million for the National Guard Readiness Center in Bellefontaine, Missouri.
• $2 million for Rosecrans Air National Guard Base.
• Billions toward B-21 Raider procurement and operations, which will benefit Missouri as many of these aircraft will be stationed at Whiteman Air Force Base.
• Billions toward Nuclear Weapon Activities, which will benefit Missouri as a share of these funds will be allocated to Kansas City National Nuclear Security Campus.