DoD IG said in the redacted version of its audit report that the bomber program has âclearly definedâ warfighter requirements and will be able to perform unmanned flight operations and carry a modified version of the B-61 nuclear bomb.
The audit said the bomberâs nuclear bomb delivery functionality is expected to be met two years after the B-21 program reaches the initial operating capability phase.
The Congressional Budget Office estimates the bomber program will cost $97 billion.
The Pentagonâs IG also commended the service branchâs contracting strategy and processes used to develop funding and program requirements as well as cost positions and evaluation system established with DoDâs cost analysts.
The DoD IGâs assessment came a month before the Air Force awarded a contract Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC) in October 2015 to build up to 100 B-21 units, the report added.