The B-52 Stratofortress, when equipped with long-range air-launched cruise missiles, represents a winning combination of viability and firepower.

The long-range, subsonic heavy bomber has been a powerhouse of the US Air Force since the 1950s. With its unmatched endurance, continual upgrades and massive payload, this legendary bomber is set to remain in service well into the 2050s.

Its payload can accommodate 20 AGM-158 Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSMs) or their extended range variant (JASSM-ER) -- 12 on the wing pylons and another eight inside the bomb bay.

The original JASSM -- a stealthy, precision-guided cruise missile -- was designed to strike high-value, heavily defended targets from distances of up to 370km away.

A state-of-the-art infrared seeker, low-observable airframe and Global Positioning System-assisted interior navigation enhance its stealth and precision.

The missile weighs more than 1,000kg and contains a 432kg penetrator and blast fragmentation warhead, making it effective against hardened structures and critical enemy infrastructure.

The extended range variant, JASSM-ER, significantly enhances the missile's reach, pushing its range up to 1000km.

Using the same air frame as the JASSM, the ER model incorporates additional fuel capacity and a more powerful turbofan engine, allowing for deep-strike capabilities while maintaining a high degree of viability.

Unlimited range

With the B-52's aerial refueling capabilities -- and unrefueled combat range of 14,200km -- the JASSM and JASSM-ER are capable of hitting targets anywhere in the world.

For example, the JASSM is capable of navigating the high peaks and deep canyons of Iran's Zagros Mountains, which provide perfect cover for the missile to avoid Iranian air defenses.

With its advanced navigational capabilities at low altitudes, the JASSM would be impossible to detect.

The combined power of just eight B-52s could launch 160 JASSMs, easily overwhelming the S-400 surface-to-air missile systems Russia has reportedly given to Iran.

The S-400, a mobile, surface-to-air missile system manufactured by the Almaz Antey Air Defense Missile Manufacturing Group, is among Russia's most advanced hardware.

Meanwhile, the US Air Force just received delivery of the JASSM-XR -- the extreme range variant -- with a range exceeding 1,850km.

The powerful JASSM warhead combined with the XR's unbeatable range further undermines Iran's ability to defeat the stealthy missile.