The B-52 program began in 1945, when the United States Army Air Forces sought greater long-range heavy bomber capability and jet-powered flight, leading to the Boeing YP-52 prototype, which first flew on April 15, 1952. The RB-52B was the second model of the B-52 design and was delivered to the United States Air Force on March 3, 1955. Between 1954 and the end of production in 1962, 744 B-52 aircraft were built, including 27 RB-52B models, whose RB designation identified aircraft fitted for reconnaissance duties. In October 1955, this aircraft was transferred to the 330th Bombardment Squadron, 93rd Bomb Wing, at Castle Air Force Base, California. After the 93rd Bomb Wing became combat ready in March 1956, 53-0005 likely served as a flight training aircraft. It remained with the 93rd Bomb Wing until February 10, 1966, when it was retired from service, and by June 1966 all B-52B and RB-52B models had been phased out of active service. On April 28, 1966, the plane was delivered to the Lowry Technical Training Center at Lowry Air Force Base for use as a trainer. In October 1975, it was removed from active training and became a static display, and after the closure of Lowry Air Force Base in 1994, 52-0005 was transferred to Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum. Its service as a reconnaissance, test, and training aircraft reflects the history of the B-52 program and the mission of Lowry Air Force Base.

Photo: Cosmos Mariner

Photo: Cosmos Mariner

Photo: Cosmos Mariner

Photo: Cosmos Mariner

Denver, Colorado · USA