In February 1974, the Air Force entered into contract to develop and flight-test the prototype AGM-86A air-launched cruise missile, which was slightly smaller than the later B, C and D models.

Regarding nuclear weapons, the B-52 can carry cruise missiles like the AGM-129 or AGM-86A, armed with nuclear warheads. The aircraft can also carry conventional weapons, including AGM-84 Harpoon ...