Pentagon to upgrade its stealth aircraft for first time since 1970s , developing a classified , next - generation bomber . Air Force agreed to award contracts to build jet Range Strike Bomber later this year . Air Force suggested it would offer a ` ` cost - plus '' contract , if government takes on risk of any cost overrun . Indications are that new bomber will carry conventional and nuclear weapons and could possibly fly with or without a pilot .
Pentagon to upgrade its stealth aircraft for first time since 1970s , developing a classified , next-generation bomber . Air Force plans to award contract to build Long Range Strike Bomber later this year . Air Force suggested it will offer a `` cost-plus '' contract , meaning government takes on risk of any cost overrun . Indications are that new bomber will carry conventional and nuclear weapons and could possibly operate with or without a pilot .