The B-52 ‘Stratofortress’ is an eight-engine, long-range strategic bomber developed by Boeing for the United States, intended to replace the B-36 Peacemaker in strategic bombing missions. The design proposal was introduced in 1948, the first prototype flew in 1952, and mass production began in 1955. Over time, eight variants were produced: B-52A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H. Production ended in 1962, with a total of 744 aircraft built.