The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, commonly referred to as the BUFF, is an American long-range, subsonic, jet-powered strategic bomber. The B-52 took its maiden flight in April 1952. Operated by the United States Air Force (USAF) since the 1950s, evolved from a straight wing aircraft powered by six turboprop engines to the final prototype YB-52 with eight turbojet engines and swept wings. Built to carry nuclear weapons for Cold War-era deterrence missions, the B-52 Stratofortress replaced the Convair B-36. The B-52 has been in active service with the USAF since 1955. As of June 2019, 58 are in active service, 18 in reserves, and approximately 12 more aircraft in long term storage.The bombers flew under the Strategic Air Command (SAC) until it was disestablished in 1992 and its aircraft absorbed into the Air Combat Command (ACC); in 2010, all B-52 Stratofortresses were transferred from the ACC to the newly created Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC). Shot at Mather Field in 2012.