Modern Marvels: B-52: Stratofortress

Overview

For nearly half a century, one bomber has dominated the skies. With a maximum speed of 650 m.p.h., a range of over 8,000 miles, and ability to drop a massive 70,000 pounds of bombs, it’s the most lethal bomber in the world. This is the dramatic story of the race to produce the first intercontinental jet bomber and the success of the B-52–from the Cold War to its use in the war against terrorism in Afghanistan. The B-52′s projected combat life is until 2045–no other bomber comes close to this record.