US to Fly Upgraded B-52J Bomber Variant to 2060

By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Contributor

The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, an US strategic bomber, is a marvel of the aviation technology. This long-range, subsonic, jet-powered aircraft, constructed by Boeing, has been a stalwart of the United States Air Force (USAF) since the mid-20th century.

The aircraft proudly displays a formidable payload capability, carrying up to 70,000 pounds (32,000 kg) of armament. It also exhibits an impressive combat radius, with a typical range of about 8,800 miles (14,200 km), all without the necessity for mid-air refueling. This combination of payload and range underscores its strategic importance in modern warfare scenarios.

Over the years, the B-52’s role within the U.S. military has evolved. Initially designed for Cold War-era deterrence missions carrying nuclear weapons, the B-52 Stratofortress took over from the Convair B-36 Peacemaker. Despite the advent of more advanced strategic bombers, the B-52’s superior performance at high subsonic speeds and its relatively low operating costs have ensured its continued service.

Looking to the future, the U.S. Air Force is gearing up to introduce its latest stealth bomber, the B-21 Raider, and retire the older B-1 Lancer and B-2 Spirit. By the 2030s, the service plans to operate a two-bomber fleet comprising at least 100 B-21s and the current fleet of 76 B-52s, which will be thoroughly modernized with a range of upgrades. This $48.6 billion overhaul aims to keep the B-52J (as it will be eventually renamed) operational until around 2060.

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The B-52 Stratofortress is engineered to fly at high subsonic speeds and can reach altitudes of up to 50,000 feet (15,166.6 meters). It is equipped to carry nuclear or precision-guided conventional ordnance with global precision navigation capability. The aircraft’s dimensions are impressive, with a wingspan of 185 feet (56 meters) and a length of 160 feet 10.9 inches (49 meters). Its power comes from eight jet engines, arranged in four twin pods beneath the wings.