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

[rangerrebew]

US to Fly Upgraded B-52J Bomber Variant to 2060
$48.6 billion overhaul aims to keep the B-52J operational until around 2060
OLAWALE ABAIRE, WARRIOR CONTRIBUTORMAY 9, 2024
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.

https://warriormaven.com/air/us-to-fly-upgraded-b-52j-bomber-variant-to-2060

[rangerrebew]

I guess the military thinks our enemies are going to go stagnant and not do research into new military weapons .

[PeteS in CA]

Sure would have been nice if the OP article actually described the improvements and improved capabilities of the "J" version. The B-52 has not at all been "stagnant" since it came into service in the 1950s, nor has the munitions it carries. I'm sure the same is true of the Russians' B-52-contemporary Tu-95 "Bear". One interesting longevity question is how many upgradeable "G" and "H" B-52s remain at Davis-Monthan AFB (and if there is a "K" upgrade, will "G"s still be economically upgradeable). At some point that number will dwindle to zero and attrition will gradually reduce the B-52 fleet.