<hi style=afpcap>Few at Boeing could have foreseen the longevity which the B-52 Stratofortress would enjoy when the prototype XB-52 was rolled out at Renton in November 1951. Designed to be the big brother to the B-47, being a truly intercontinental strategic nuclear bomber, the B-52 has proved to be an extremely versatile aircraft, having been modified to carry large numbers of conventional explosives to bomb North Vietnam, and to perform a maritime role. Such offensive action was not considered when the B-52 was first conceived. The B-52 is credited with bringing the North Vietnamese to the negotiation table in Paris through sustained bombing of strategic targets. The B-52G model (illustrated) was modified to perform anti-shipping duties, and changed its primary role from nuclear to the carriage of conventional munitions, with the type performing hundreds of missions against Iraqi targets during Operation Desert Storm. The versions was retired from service during 1994, with just the B-52H due to remain in service for the remainder of this decade and into the next. The B-52G depicted has retained the natural metal finish with a white anti-flash underside to prevent the aircraft from sustaining damage during a nuclear detonation. This scheme was commonplace until the late '60s when the green and brown camouflage was introduced to all except the B-52D which was painted black overall. Subsequently the aircraft received a low visibility dark green and slate camouflage, before adopting the latest mid grey pattern. </hi>
