RR (US) have received an order to replant the existing B52H fleet with the F130 engine in a $2.6 billion contract. All told it appears that 608 engines will be supplied which should keep the aircraft type in service for a further 30 years giving the B52 type a lifespan of 100 years since the aircraft type first flew in 1950. Replanting of the entire fleet is envisaged for 2035. Rolls-Royce win $2.6bn contract to re-engine B-52 bombers
The aircraft type is envisaged to last until 2050 which will be 100 years since the aircraft type first flew as other articles have referenced. Looking at the 68 points raised in the debate following, one poster has suggested the emergence of a B52J. Without doubt, airframes have a limited life and are closely monitored with NDT for stresses, any posing a serious problem resulting in an unacceptable factor of safety would lead to the aircraft being scrapped. I would think now that the existing B 52H fleet has a low utilisation but it appears that it's future enhanced role may be a platform for cruise missiles given the extended range from the new engines.
They do. Either 12xAGM129 or 20xAGM86. This says first flight in April 1952, so 2050 leaves them just shy of 100 years. B-52H Stratofortress Bomber, United States of America All the best Andreas
Cruise missiles are already part of their arsenal .However with the new engines, it is said that operationally their role would be enhanced enabling an aircraft to increase its range to its standoff position before release of its missile. Better performance from the engine should result in solving the "Smokey Joes". issue. Engine is said to have a reduced maintenance commitment.and said to have been preferred over GE and P&W .However contract is with RR (US) and work will be carried out in the US It's interesting to note that the B 52 was a direct development of the B 47 but in October1948 the project had started with a straight wing design using 6 turbo props. However intensive design changes were made with swept back wings introduced plus Boeing persuaded the USAF to accept a jet propelled bomber, the Boeing Model 464 emerged ....the B 52 rolling out as the B 52A.
Interestingly the Russians went for the turboprop option *and* a swept wing. Also similar longevity. The TU-95 Bear first flew in 1952, entered service in 1956 and is planned to remain in operation until at least 2040.
I mistake YB-52s with the tandem cockpits for the B-47s. LeMay insisted on side by side seating for the pilots.
