The Boeing B-52H is in its fifth decade of operational service. It primarily provides the United States with immediate nuclear and conventional global strike capability. The B-52H is the most combat capable bomber in the U.S. inventory. Due to its high mission-capable rate, long range, persistence and ability to employ accurate standoff weapons and Joint Direct Attack Munitions, the B-52H continues to be a major contributor to the U.S. and allied forces. B-52 Quick Facts The B-52’s 185-foot wingspan is too wide to take off or land in a crossing using traditional flying techniques. Boeing engineers designed special landing gear that could align with the runway allowing special takeoffs and landings. The original design of the B-52 placed a gunner in the tail of the aircraft. Later designs moved the gunner forward with the rest of the crew. After the Gulf War in the early 1990s, the gunner position and defensive machine guns were eliminated. U.S. Air Force engineering studies suggest that the lifespan of the B-52 could extend beyond 2040. B-52 Technical Specifications Primary Function Heavy bomber Power Plant 8 Pratt & Whitney engines TF33-P-3/103 turbofan Thrust Each engine up to 17,000 lbs Wingspan 185 ft (56.4 m) Length 159 ft, 4 in (48.5 m) Height 40 ft, 8 in (12.4 m) Weight Approximately 185,000 lbs (83,250 kg) Max Takeoff Weight 488,000 lbs (219,600 kg) Fuel Capacity 312,197 lbs Payload 70,000 lbs (31,500 kg) Speed 650 mph (Mach 0.86) Range 8,800 mi (7,652 nautical miles) Ceiling 50,000 ft (15,150 m) Crew 5 (aircraft commander, pilot, radar navigator, navigator and electronic warfare officer Initial operating capability May 1961 (Current ‘H’ Model) Armament Approximately 70,000 lbs (31,500 kg) mixed ordnance -- bombs, smart weapons, mines and missiles. Modified to carry air-launched cruise missiles and Miniature Air Launched Decoy.