Hardcover - 160 pages - The first B-52A flew on 5 August 1954 and production versions of the B-52A were designated B-52B, with greater weight and larger engines. Some had photographic reconnaissance or electronic countermeasures equipment in their bomb-bays and were re-designated RB-52Bs.
With each new variant the B-52 increased in range, power and capability. The B-52H made its first flight on 6 March 1961 and remains in service with the USAF in 2011, although a great many were broken up as part of the 1992 Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty. A total of 744 B-52s were produced at Boeing's plants at Seattle and Wichita between 1952 and 1962.
Contents:
* Early design and Development
* The Stratofortress at War
* Anatomy of the Stratofortress
* The Pratt & Whitney TF33-P3 Turbofan
* The Pilot's View
* The Gunner's View
* The Maintenance Crew's View
Detailed photographs and technical cutaway drawings. Author is an authority on the B-52 and the USAF.