Boeing B-52D Stratofortress

The Boeing B‑52D Stratofortress, the third production model of the iconic B‑52 family, entered service in 1958 after its first flight in 1955. Developed during the Cold War, the D variant was optimized for high‑altitude strategic bombing and later adapted for low‑level penetration, reflecting evolving United States Air Force doctrine. Powered by eight Pratt & Whitney J57 turbo‑jets, the aircraft could cruise at Mach 0.86 and carry up to 70,000 pounds of mixed ordnance, ranging from conventional bombs to nuclear weapons. Distinctive features include a reinforced airframe, additional fuel capacity, and upgraded avionics that allowed night and all‑weather operations. The B‑52D saw extensive combat in Vietnam, delivering massive payloads in Operation Rolling Thunder and later in the Gulf War, demonstrating unparalleled endurance with a combat radius exceeding 8,800 km and a typical 24‑hour loiter capability. Its longevity—still in service after more than six decades—underscores its significance as a versatile platform that has shaped strategic airpower doctrine, influenced bomber design, and cemented Boeing’s reputation for creating durable, adaptable aircraft. The B‑52D remains a testament to engineering resilience and strategic flexibility in modern aviation and global impact.

Boeing

Boeing B-52D Stratofortress

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Design & Classification