B-52H reaches aviation milestone

Published May 17, 2011
By Senior Airman Allison M. Boehm
2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Fifty years ago, the Air Force delivered a devastating, long-range, multi-role bomber to its fleet--the B-52H Stratofortress. May 9 marked the 50th Anniversary of operational service by the B-52H, a milestone in Boeing and aviation history.

From entering the skies to combat Soviet tensions during the Cold War to maintaining a presence in recent conflicts, the B-52 continues to be an important element of the Air Force Global Strike Command bomber fleet.

"From looking back to when the first A-model was made in 1952, the capabilities of this aircraft have grown so much," said Maj. Chris Otis, 20th Bomb Squadron assistant director of operations. "To be able to say I'm a crewmember of the B-52 and have it instantly recognized says a lot about what this aircraft has accomplished."

The B-52H entered service May 9, 1961. Over the past 50 years, the bomber has served as a nuclear deterrent, entering combat in the skies over numerous conflicts.

According to Web site Boeing.com, no bomber in U.S. military history has been called upon to remain operational as long as the B-52.

"The B-52 is arguably the greatest military aircraft of all time," said retired Col. Ronald Thurlow. "It has served as the symbol of American military might for the past 56 years, and is recognized as such not only here in America, but by our friends and enemies around the world. It appears the H-model will continue that legacy for several decades to come."

Extensive system and structural upgrades have extended this aircraft's service life, which is expected to continue beyond the year 2030.

"Half a century ago, no one would think this aircraft would be where it is today," said Major Otis. "It is a true testament to this airframe."

The role of the Stratofortess as a heavy bomber continues and will be a viable part of the U.S. bomber fleet well into the century.

"The B-52H has protected this nation during the darkest days of the Cold War and they are continuing that mission in this Age of Terror," said Colonel Thurlow. "The entire world recognizes the B-52 and what it represents, and the U. S. Air Force should not hesitate to use this milestone to remind our own service, our nation and the rest of the world that we too remember."