The United States has begun flying B-52 Stratofortress bombers over Iranian airspace, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, announced the development during a Pentagon press briefing on Tuesday, stating that the move follows a month of sustained military operations that have degraded Iranian air defenses.
Over the past 30 days, US forces have struck more than 11,000 targets, according to Caine, who emphasized that the B-52 missions are now possible due to increased air superiority over Iran. The B-52, a long-serving bomber first introduced in the 1950s, is being used alongside B-1 and B-2 bombers in the region. The Air Force plans to continue upgrading the B-52 fleet, extending its service life into the coming decades.
Initial military efforts focused on neutralizing Iranian air defenses and missile systems, with US and Israeli forces employing physical munitions, cyber warfare, and electronic countermeasures. These actions have reportedly allowed for greater operational freedom in Iranian airspace. The Pentagon has also indicated the use of space-based assets to disrupt Iranian communications and defense networks.
The B-52’s role in overland missions represents a shift in strategy, as the aircraft lacks the stealth and speed of newer models like the B-1 Lancer and B-2 Spirit. However, its reliability and payload capacity make it a valuable asset in sustained bombing campaigns. The Air Force is investing in major upgrades to the B-52’s engines and radar systems to ensure its continued effectiveness.