After jet losses in Iran war, US eyes ‘sci-fi’ vertical-takeoff rocket bomber to replace B-21?

Is the U.S. Air Force preparing a revolutionary successor to the B-21 Raider? According to Aviation Week, the Pentagon is studying a radical vertical takeoff bomber concept capable of launching without a conventional runway before carrying out long-range strike missions. The program, being explored for Air Force Global Strike Command, could reshape America's future bomber fleet if selected. The move also comes as Washington reassesses military requirements and rebuilds missile stockpiles following months of operations during the Iran conflict.