A US Air Force B-52 bomber crashed in southern California on Monday, killing at least eight people. The aircraft went down shortly after taking off from Edwards Air Force Base, according to a statement from base authorities. The crash occurred at 11:20 a.m. local time, producing a large plume of black smoke visible from several miles away. Emergency rescue teams quickly reached the site, and recovery operations were still underway.

The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress has been in service with the US military since the 1950s. Known by the nickname “The Buff,” the long-range strategic bomber can fly at altitudes up to 50,000 feet and carry up to 70,000 pounds of ordnance, including conventional bombs and nuclear-armed cruise missiles. The aircraft can also be refueled midair, allowing it to operate globally. During the Cold War, it served as a key component of the United States’ nuclear deterrent.

Typically, a B-52 carries a crew of five, including a commander, pilot, radar navigator, navigator, and electronic warfare officer.