When the need arises...

[Truckman]

This illustrates why Davis-Monthan AFB exists...

It may be of interest to note that the "60" in Wise Guy's serial number is the fiscal year in which the Air Force bought her. The very last of the B-52Hs rolled off Boeing's production line in 1962, putting the plane in the latter half of the BUFF's production run. The service expects to continue flying these bombers through at least 2050—and probably beyond—and has plans to make even more significant upgrades to them in the coming years, including the addition of new engines and radars.

...Ben

[Billy_Rightwing]

That's one hell of a plane. Belonged to the base flying club at Eielson AFB and got to look at them close. A wonder back then and still are.

[Truckman]

That's one hell of a plane. Belonged to the base flying club at Eielson AFB and got to look at them close. A wonder back then and still are.

Yes sir...They first flew in 1952, and have been in service since 1955...Their latest upgrades have extended their service life until 2050...By treaty we can have 76 operational...There are still 12 H models stored in readiness at Davis-Monthan...

They can take a beating, and still remain airborne...Below is pictured one that landed safely after its vertical stabilizer was lost to wind shear...The rear landing gear was lowered in flight to add some stability...



Almost a hundred years of serving America because for what they are capable of, there's simply nothing better in the air......Ben

[Honda]

Can you imagine what it does to the mentality of soldiers that find themselves under one of these beasts when it decides to dump? It has to be utterly demoralizing.

[Phillbo]

I've taken the tour at Davis-Monthan a couple times.... Impressive.

[wacojoe]

I can’t see a B-52 without Slim Pickens coming to mind.

[Truckman]

I can’t see a B-52 without Slim Pickens coming to mind.