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Modernized B-52H Will Become B-52J and Fly Into the 2050s

Modernized B-52H Will Become B-52J and Fly Into the 2050s
A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress heavy bomber drops bombs in this undated file photo. U.S. Air Force/Getty Images
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Commentary
With testing underway at NASA’s Stennis Space Center for the B-52’s shiny new engines, a quick overview of the comprehensive package of upgrades and modernizations that will keep the B-52 flying well into the 2050s seems appropriate. But given the B-52’s age, it’s only natural to wonder why the Air Force is making such a large commitment to such an aged airframe. However, in coming to understand the B-52’s history and capabilities, it makes sense.
Mike Fredenburg
Mike Fredenburg
Author
Mike Fredenburg writes on military technology and defense matters with an emphasis on defense reform. He holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and master's degree in production operations management.
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