USAF Serial Number 52-0005
The B-52 program had its roots in 1945, when the United States Army Air Forces sought to expand its capabilities with a long-range heavy bomber and jet powered flight. This resulted in the development of the Boeing YP-52 prototype that made its first flight on April 15, 1952.
The RB-52B displayed here was constructed as the second model of the B-52 design, and was delivered to the United States Air Force on March 3, 1955.
A total of 744 B-52 aircraft were built between 1954 and the end of production in 1962. Of this number, 27 were the RB-52B model. The RB designation was given to planes fitted for reconnaissance duties.
In October 1955, this aircraft was transferred to the 330th Bombardment Squadron, 93rd Bomb Wing (BW), based at Castle Air Force Base, California. Once the 93rd BW became combat ready in March 1956, 53-0005 likely served as a flight training aircraft. This plane remained with the 93rd BW until February 10, 1966 when it was retired from service. By June 1966, all B-52B and RB-52B models were phased out of active service.
On April 28, 1966 this plane was delivered to the Lowry Technical Training Center at Lowry Air Force Base for use as a trainer. In October 1975, the aircraft was removed from active training and used as a static display. With the closure of Lowry Air Force Base
in 1994, 52-0005 was transferred to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum.
RB-52B/52-0005 provides a strong symbol for aviation history and military service, both past and present. Given the long history of the B-52, its current service and projected operation into the future, it reflects the ingenuity and innovation that the aviation industry and U.S. military can offer. Its role as a test and training aircraft represents the history and mission of Lowry Air Force Base.
Crew: Six (pilot, copilot, electronic warfare officer, navigator, bombardier and tail gunner)
Length: 156 ft. 7 in.
Wingspan: 185 ft. 0 in.
Height: 48 ft. 4 in.
Empty Weight: 185,000 lbs.
Max. Takeoff Weight: 420,000 lbs.
Max. Speed: 630 mph
Range: 3,600 miles at combat weight of 272,000 lbs.
Service Ceiling: 47,000 ft.
Engines: Eight Pratt & Whitney J57-P-1W turbojets, 10,000 lbs. thrust each