The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress is a strategic American subsonic long-range jet-powered bomber. The B-52 was designed and built by Boeing, which continues to provide support and improvement to this aircraft. The B-52 has been operated by the United States Air Force (USAF) since the 1950s. The bomber is capable of carrying weapons of up to 70000 pounds (32000 kg) [3] and has a combat range of more than 8,800 miles (14,080 km) without recharging in the air.<br /><br />Starting with a successful contract offer in June 1946, the B-52's design evolved from a straight wing aircraft powered by six turboprop engines to a final YB-52 prototype with eight turbojet engines and sweeping wings. The B-52 made its first flight in April 1952. Built to carry nuclear weapons for the Cold War deterrence mission, the B-52 Stratofortress replaced the B-36 Convair. The bomber was a veteran of several wars, but the B-52 only dropped conventional ammunition in the battles he had participated in. The official name of the B-52 Stratofortress is rarely used, informally this aircraft is commonly referred to as BUFF (Big Ugly Fat Fucker / Fella).