Comment Re:Still fit for purpose (Score 1) 190
Jet engines have come along way in the last 60 years. If the AF spent the time and money to actually do this (and yes, it would lots of both), they'd have a plane that's safer (even going down to 4 engines, the MTBF is so much greater in a modern engine it more than makes up for it), much more efficient (the B52s immense range would be that much longer, or alternatively leave more weight for bombs), and cleaner if you are a touch-feely environmental type.
Still, all these benefits aside, a combination of the serious up-front costs, and an Air Force who would rather spend their money elsewhere means it will probably not happen.