B‑52 nuclear bomber circles Estonia amid EU's Kyiv visit
While EU politicians are in Kyiv, a Boeing B-52H Stratofortress belonging to the USAF circles over Estonia, just about 60 miles from the Russian border. Here’s what characterizes this powerful machine.
As noted on the Flightradar portal, an American strategic bomber, a Boeing B-52H Stratofortress with registration 60-0044, is circling over Estonia. This is most likely a show of force directed toward Russia, accompanying the visit of European politicians to Kyiv.
B-52 Stratofortress — despite its age, it remains an effective weapon and a tool of foreign policy
Despite being introduced into service over 70 years ago, the B-52 Stratofortress still plays a key role in the American strategic deterrence system. The currently operated aircraft, number 58 active, 18 in reserve, and 12 preserved, were produced between 1952 and 1962. Thus, the newest ones are already 62 years old.
They have undergone numerous upgrades during this period, culminating in the current B-52H version. Furthermore, more upgrades are planned, allowing the aircraft, designated as B-52J, to continue service for up to 100 years.
Despite the age and development of newer aircraft such as the B-1B, B-2, or the modern B-21, the B-52 remains indispensable. It not only carries nuclear weapons but is also capable of transporting up to 34 tons of various aerial armaments, including air-launched cruise missiles.
Although it falls behind its newer counterparts in many respects, the B-52 has significant advantages. These include high reliability and the best cost-to-payload and range ratio among all American bombers. For these reasons, B-52s are often used as a show of force in foreign policy.
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