Boeing B-52 Stratofortress

Also known as Stratofortress, Boeing Model 464-67, Boeing 464-67, BUFF, Boeing Stratofortress, B-52 Stratofortress, B52

The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress is an American nuclear-capable subsonic jet-powered strategic bomber. The B-52 was designed and built by Boeing, which has continued to provide support and upgrades. It has been operated by the United States Air Force (USAF) since 1955 and was flown by NASA from 1959 to 2007. The bomber can carry up to 70,000 pounds (32,000 kg) of weapons and has a typical combat range of around 8,800 miles (14,200 km) without aerial refueling.

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The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress is an American military jet bomber that can carry nuclear weapons and has been in use by the U.S. Air Force since 1955. It matters because it can transport up to 70,000 pounds of weapons across vast distances of roughly 8,800 miles, making it a significant strategic defense asset.

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Wikidata facts

Image: An air-to-air left underside view of the 92nd Bombardment Wing's new camouflaged B-52G Stratofortress aircraft DF-ST-85-12450.jpg
Height: 12.4
Length: 48.03

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Commons category: Boeing B-52 Stratofortress
Commons gallery: Boeing B-52 Stratofortress
first flight: 1952-04-15
total produced: 744
wingspan: 56.42
maximum operating altitude

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Article

After Boeing won the initial contract in June 1946, the aircraft's design evolved from a straight-wing aircraft powered by six turboprop engines to the final prototype YB-52 with eight turbojet engines and swept wings. The B-52 took its maiden flight in April 1952. Built to carry nuclear weapons for Cold War deterrence missions, the B-52 Stratofortress replaced the Convair B-36 Peacemaker. The bombers flew under the Strategic Air Command (SAC) until it was disestablished in 1992 and its aircraft absorbed into the Air Combat Command (ACC); in 2010, all B-52s were transferred to the new Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC).