Yes, B-52 Stratofortresses were indeed shot down during the Vietnam War, specifically during Operation Linebacker II in December 1972. This intensive bombing campaign against targets in North Vietnam resulted in several B-52 losses.
B-52 Losses During Linebacker II
Operation Linebacker II, often referred to as the "Christmas Bombing," saw extensive use of B-52 bombers. While the majority of sorties were successful, some aircraft were lost due to North Vietnamese air defenses.
A total of six B-52s were shot down during this operation. These losses occurred under various circumstances:
- By Wave:
- First Wave: Two B-52G models and one B-52D model were lost.
- Third Wave: An identical number of aircraft—two B-52G models and one B-52D model—were downed.
- Timing of Impact:
- Three B-52s were struck and lost before they could release their bombs.
- The other three were hit after completing their bomb release.
- Location of Loss:
- Four of the downed B-52s crashed near the primary target area of Hanoi.
- Two aircraft managed to exit North Vietnamese airspace before succumbing to damage.
Despite these losses, the overall effectiveness of the B-52 missions during Linebacker II was high. Out of 99 planned B-52 sorties, 90 were deemed effective in reaching their targets and delivering their payloads.
Understanding the B-52's Role
The B-52 Stratofortress, nicknamed "BUFF" (Big Ugly Fat Fella), was a cornerstone of the American air campaign in Vietnam. Initially used for strategic bombing in the south, its role evolved to include concentrated strikes against North Vietnam.
For more information on the history and operations of the B-52 Stratofortress, you can visit the Wikipedia page on the B-52 Stratofortress.
