On the B-21's windows, for years I have had numerous discussions with people about the possibility that there would be no windows at all. Next-generation display or HMD/AR tech used instead, thus enhancing its low observable capabilities and not having to deal... 1.X
https://twitter.com/Aviation_Intel/status/1412562220446150660
with troublesome large windscreens that need to have LO properties. See the X-59 for instance (linked). The B-21's optionally manned capability could also reduce some risk here as well, as it would be able to complete even terminal operations itself... 1/X thedrive.com/the-war-zone/2…
But I really don't see this being probable with the B-21 for technological and cultural reasons. Look at the issues with KC-46's remote vision system and taking out the visibility really pushes also taking the pilot out as well, which the USAF is notoriously averse to... 1/X
Most of all, we are talking about a strategic capability here. It is a no-fail mission, not something you take massive risks on, especially for a program that was purposefully designed to reduce risk by very carefully including mature or semi-mature systems... 1/X
with a cutting-edge airframe in order to make sure the program doesn't relive the B-2's death spiral. Taking out the windows would be a huge massive risk. So it goes against the LRS-B program'ss known goals.
Maybe one day we will see this on an operational military aircraft, but by then the human should be out of the cockpit anyway.
Still, maybe, if the benefits were really high enough in terms of reduced signature and a proof of concept successfully existed, I could see them go this route or look to spiral it in down the line. So anything is possible.
& remember, it isn't just flying around & taking off & landing, B-21 will have to refuel in mid-air with high reliability. So once again, unless this has been worked out & the risk highly reduced for this type of delicate operation, it's unlikely they would take such a risk.
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