Photo: Alamy
A Boeing B-52 Stratofortress crashed shortly after takeoff on Monday at Edwards Air Force Base in California, killing all eight people on board during what officials described as a routine test mission tied to a radar modernization program.
The bomber went down around 11:20 a.m. in the Mojave Desert north of Los Angeles. Aerial footage showed a large debris field and fire near the runway, with emergency crews responding to the scene.
Those aboard included military personnel, government contractors and two Boeing employees, the company confirmed Monday evening.
“We lost eight great Americans,” said Col. James Hayes, deputy commander of the 412th Test Wing, who noted that officials were working to notify the victims’ families.
After reviewing crash footage, military officials concluded that no one could have survived the impact.
Investigators have not determined what caused the crash, and Hayes said a full investigation could take up to six months. The aircraft was supporting the Air Force’s radar modernization effort, which involves replacing the B-52’s aging radar with a modern Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) system.
The B-52 entered service in 1955 and remains one of the most recognizable aircraft in the U.S. military. Designed to carry both conventional and nuclear weapons, it has served in conflicts from Vietnam to the Middle East.
Edwards Air Force Base serves as a primary testing center for the U.S. Air Force, with the 412th Test Wing overseeing developmental testing of aircraft, weapons systems, software, and other technologies.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, loved ones and fellow servicemembers of those aboard today’s Air Force B-52 crash at Edwards Air Force Base,” Nebraska Republican Rep. Don Bacon posted to X following the crash.
Troy Meink expressed condolences following the accident.
“We mourn this loss and honor the service of our Airmen, civilians, and contractors who work every day to advance our mission,” Meink said.
The crash temporarily shut down operations at Edwards, with incoming aircraft diverted and access to the base restricted while emergency crews secured the scene. Investigators are expected to further examine flight data and wreckage to determine what caused the fatal accident.