The US military has achieved greater air superiority over Iran, paving the way for B-52 Stratofortress bombers to conduct overland missions, according to Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. This development marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict, as the aging B-52s, first deployed in the 1950s, continue to play a critical role in US military operations.
Since the war began, US and Israeli forces have targeted Iranian air defenses and missile systems to degrade their capabilities. Over the past month, more than 11,000 targets have been struck, Gen. Caine noted in a press briefing. The degradation of Iranian defenses has allowed B-52s, along with B-1 and B-2 bombers, to operate with increased freedom over Iranian airspace.
Upgrades Extend B-52 Lifespan
The B-52 Stratofortress, known for its durability and versatility, is undergoing major upgrades to remain operational until 2050. The Commercial Engine Replacement Program, funded by a $2 billion contract awarded to Boeing last December, will replace the bombers' aging engines with modern commercial ones. Additionally, the Radar Modernization Program aims to enhance the aircraft's range and resistance to electronic warfare countermeasures.
Given the increase in air superiority, we've successfully started to conduct the first overland B-52 missions, which allow us to continue to get on top of the enemy.
The B-52 fleet, comprising 72 active bombers, continues to serve both conventional and nuclear roles. Retired units are stored at the Air Force's long-term storage facility in Arizona. These upgrades underscore the US military's commitment to maintaining its strategic bomber capabilities well into the next century.