Operation Linebacker II: US B-52 Bombing Campaign in Vietnam
Operation Linebacker II, also known as the Christmas Bombings, was an intensive 11-day US air campaign in December 1972 during the Vietnam War. Over 200 B-52 bombers dropped approximately 20,000 tons of ordnance on North Vietnam. This major historical event aimed to pressure Hanoi into peace negotiations, making it one of the most significant air raids since WWII.
- Operation Linebacker II lasted 11 days from December 18-29, 1972.
- Over 200 B-52 bombers participated in the intense bombing campaign.
- Approximately 20,000 tons of ordnance were dropped on North Vietnam.
- Targeted military and industrial sites in Hanoi and Haiphong.
- Aimed to force North Vietnam back to the Paris Peace Talks.
- Considered among the largest bombing campaigns since World War II.
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