Five men were arrested after three suspicious vans were stopped near RAF Fairford, prompting an investigation by counter-terrorism police

Two operational bombers will become test aircraft as B-52J modernization programs face rising costs, delays and integration risks

US Air Force awards contracts worth up to US$766 million for a modernization program that has exceeded US$2.9 billion and suffered major delays

GAO urges changes to reduce program risks after radar costs surged and first test aircraft was lost in June

USAF says work on replacement test bomber should be completed by the end of 2026

Airfield in California reopens as investigation into the loss of eight crew members continues

Aircraft assigned to radar modernization program had arrived at the California test center in December 2025

Air Force review could examine new strike aircraft concepts alongside expanded B-21 fleet plans

Engine milestone clears path toward flight testing as B-52 fleet prepares for decades of additional service

US Department of Defense authorized the next phase of the engine replacement program, with initial funding expected for 2026