US Air Force B-52 bomber crashes shortly after takeoff in California

A US Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bomber crashed shortly after takeoff from Edwards Air Force Base in Southern California on Tuesday, triggering a major emergency response and forcing the closure of the military airfield.

According to a statement from the base, the incident occurred at approximately 11:20am (local time). Emergency crews were immediately dispatched to the crash site, where thick black smoke was seen rising into the sky.

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether there were any casualties or injuries among the crew. The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation.

Following the incident, Edwards Air Force Base suspended airfield operations, diverting all inbound aircraft and temporarily halting non-commercial visitor access to allow emergency personnel to focus on response efforts.

The aircraft involved was a B-52 Stratofortress, a long-range strategic bomber that has served with the US military since the 1950s. The aircraft is capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear weapons and remains a key component of the United States' long-range strike capability.

Aerial footage from the scene showed a scorched area at the crash site as emergency teams continued operations.

Edwards Air Force Base is located in California's Mojave Desert, about 160 kilometres north of Los Angeles. Further details are expected as military officials continue to assess the situation.