The United States Air Force has deployed its legendary B-52 Stratofortress bomber, one of the oldest aircraft still in active service, during recent military operations targeting Iran.
The aircraft, which first flew in 1952, has participated in several major conflicts over the decades — including the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terror. Now, the iconic bomber has once again entered the battlefield as part of the latest U.S. military campaign.
Operation Epic Fury Targets Iranian Infrastructure
According to U.S. Central Command, American forces have struck more than 2,000 targets in Iran since the launch of Operation Epic Fury on February 28.
The campaign includes the deployment of powerful long-range bombers such as the B-1B Lancer and the B-52 Stratofortress, which have been used to conduct precision airstrikes on key military facilities.
U.S. officials said the strikes targeted ballistic missile sites, command-and-control centers, and other strategic infrastructure across Iran.
Long-Range Bombers Used in Deep Strike Missions
As part of the operation, B-1B Lancer bombers carried out deep long-range strikes inside Iranian territory. The bombers are capable of carrying large payloads of precision-guided munitions and operating over long distances without refueling.
Speaking at the Pentagon, Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the airstrikes had helped establish local air superiority over certain operational areas.
“This air superiority will not only enhance the protection of our forces but also allow them to continue operations over Iran,” Caine said.
B-52 Could Serve for a Century
The B-52 Stratofortress remains one of the most recognizable aircraft in U.S. military history. Despite being more than 70 years old, the bomber continues to receive upgrades that allow it to remain a vital part of the Air Force’s strategic arsenal.
Military analysts believe the aircraft could potentially become the first military aircraft to remain in active service for nearly 100 years, highlighting its extraordinary longevity and adaptability.
As tensions continue in the region, the deployment of the B-52 signals the United States’ ability to project long-range air power and maintain pressure on strategic targets.