B-52 : a history of an American icon

Conceived soon after World War II and first deployed in 1955, the B-52 Stratofortress is the most important strategic weapon ever developed.

Despite the immediate recognition of its name and image around the world, few understand the major role and significance of this aircraft on international affairs over the past half a century.

The first jet aircraft capable of circumnavigating the globe non-stop, the B-52 with its massive payload of nuclear or conventional weapons is remarkable both in the adaptability of its airframe which has allowed it to remain in active service for more than five decades and its capability of striking targets anywhere in the world.

During the Cold War, B-52s provided a constant deterrent to Soviet aims; in Vietnam, these bombers helped extend the war long enough for America to devise an exit strategy and during Operation Desert Storm, B-52s are credited with attacks that demoralized and weakened the Iraqi Republican Guard. In "B-52: A History of an American Icon", Anthony Thornborough and Tony Cassanova draw on official records, recently declassified documents, first-hand interviews, and other unique material to chart the operational and developmental history of this most expensive and recognized jet bomber program.

So far three generations of crews have taken to the skies in B-52s with another almost certain to follow as these unique machines continue their role both as bombers and electronic warfare platforms.

Admired by many, loathed by some, the B-52 has consistently been a decisive weapon of modern conflict and one likely to remain the subject of controversy well beyond its eventual retirement.

This is the most influential strategic weapon of the past fifty years.