B-52 crashes at Edwards, crew condition unknown
WASHINGTON — A US Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bomber crashed today after taking off from Edwards Air Force Base, according to a spokesperson for the base.
“Emergency crews immediately responded to the scene and the situation is ongoing,” the spokesperson said. The incident occurred around 11:20 AM local time.
The aircraft operates with up to five crew members. It’s not clear how many were aboard the aircraft, or their current condition.
The B-52 is a long-range, swept-wing bomber that entered service in the 1950s. The Air Force is upgrading the bomber’s engines, radar and other subsystems to extend its service life into the 2050s.
Edwards Air Force Base is a testing hub, where officials can evaluate upgrades and the integration of new weapons. The Air Force did not disclose the bomber’s mission prior to its crash.
A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bomber crashed after taking off from Edwards Air Force Base at 11:20 AM local time. Emergency crews responded to the scene, and the situation is ongoing. The number of crew members aboard and their condition remain unknown. The B-52 is a long-range bomber that is currently being upgraded to extend its service life into the 2050s.
- A B-52 Stratofortress bomber crashed after taking off from Edwards Air Force Base.
- Emergency crews responded to the scene immediately.
- The incident occurred around 11:20 AM local time.
- The number of crew members aboard is unclear, as is their condition.
- The B-52 is undergoing upgrades to extend its service life.