The B-52 bomber is an iconic, aging warhorse. Probe of fatal crash could influence its future

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The B-52 bomber is considered a marvel not only of the U.S.military but of all aviation history.The massive plane remains a workhorse for the Air Force seven decades after it debuted in the 1950s, and military officials believe the fleet can continue through the century mark with regular modifications and modernization.

Prized for their payloads, long ranges and ability to fly at high altitudes, B-52s have played a role in many U.S.conflicts, including the war with Iran.

Now, an inquiry into why a B-52 Stratofortress crashed Monday shortly after takeoff at Edwards Air Fore Base, killing eight, is renewing questions about the 70-year-old planes, their purpose in the rapidly modernizing military landscape and their future.Experts say the probe will likely include a review of the entire aging heavy bomber fleet, including past and upcoming upgrades to the plane that the Air Force has called the “backbone” of its manned bomber force.“The problem is that you do the math, and equipment that was bought in the Cold War is getting pretty old, and there comes a point where these front-line aircraft, they wear out,” said Douglas Birkey, executive director of the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies.“Structurally, can the aircraft hang together until 2050, where they have it projected? Well, no one really knows.”There is little doubt the B-52 will continue its epic run.

The Air Force is currently working toward the newest version of the bomber, testing a new radar system and working with contractors to update its 1960s-era engines.“If you take care of an airplane, you can fly them forever,” said Ross Aimer, a retired United Airlines pilot and chief executive of Aero Consulting Experts.

But, he added, constant updates to the original frame of the B-52 could also cause issues that need to be probed.Exactly what caused the B-52 Stratofortress to crash shortly after takeof...