New book examines Cold War SAC bomber force

The F-35 is presented not only as a fighter but as a tool of U.S. influence, since buyers depend on U.S.-controlled software, maintenance, parts, and logistics; concerns about sovereignty have led some countries to consider alternatives, while partners pursue next-generation aircraft. Separately, a newly announced book examines how Strategic Air Command’s bombers, crews, alert facilities, communications, and command systems supported U.S. nuclear deterrence from 1957 to 1991, highlighting the B-47’s changing role and the B-52’s emergence as the force’s backbone.