ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- The 28th Bomb Wing celebrated the completion of a $129.5 million runway construction upgrade with a ribbon cutting ceremony Dec. 3, 2025.
Area civic leaders, representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and RC Construction, Inc. – the primary contractor – joined Airmen from across the wing to commemorate finishing the project, a key part of Ellsworth’s preparation for the arrival of the B-21 Raider.
“This is a significant milestone in the survivability of this airfield for at least the next 50 years,” said Col. Erick Lord, 28th Bomb Wing commander. “It also gives Ellsworth the ability to receive and launch America’s first sixth generation combat aircraft.”
Approximately 220 contractors worked on the project since the runway was closed in December 2024. The work included significant infrastructure upgrades including the use of 106,000 tons of concrete cement for the runway surface.
“Rebuilding a runway of this scale requires precision, coordination, and a relentless focus on safety and quality,” said Col. Robert Newbauer, USACE Omaha District commander. “Our engineers and construction partners worked closely with the 28th Bomb Wing every day to keep this effort on track and to ensure the finished runway meets the standards required for decades of reliable use.”
Additionally, the project involved installing 105 miles of joint sealing to ensure long term durability, as well as laying 83 miles of electrical conduit to support runway lighting and operational systems.
“We couldn’t have asked for stronger partners, and it’s been an honor to deliver this critical infrastructure in support of the B-21 bed-down mission,” said Randy Scott, RC Construction, Inc. chief operating officer. “[We are] honored and humbled to have this project apart of our company’s legacy.”
Ellsworth AFB relocated its fleet of 17 B-1B aircraft and approximately 800 Airmen to Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota, during the runway closure where they continued to support taskings and accomplish the wing’s long-range strike mission.
“Even though our aircraft were not flying out of Ellsworth, our ability to deliver long-range strike throughout the world was unabated,” said Lord. “No matter where our aircraft and Airmen are stationed, the 28th Bomb Wing resides on the forward edge of American air power.”
For more information, contact the 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs office at (605) 385-5056.