The U-2 spy plane flies at the edge of space above 95 percent of Earth's atmosphere, enabling it to skirt normal anti-aircraft missiles.The first U-2 was hand-built in 1952 by Lockheed engineers and went into service in 1955, making surveillance flights over the Soviet Union.
The aircraft was completed within eight months and exceeded expectations. It had a flight radius of 3000 nautical miles, and a maximum safe altitude of 70,000 feet, 20,000 feet higher than Russian interceptors, making the U2 the most difficult plane to engage at the time.
The long, straight wings give the U-2 glider-like characteristics. It can carry a variety of sensors and cameras and is an extremely reliable reconnaissance aircraft.Because it has to fly at high altitude, the pilot must wear a full pressure suit. As a physical environment, space begins around 125 miles above the earth; but as a physiological environment, it begins at 50,000 feet - the space equivalent zone.Flying in this zone requires the protection of a full pressure suit to protect from the high altitude hazards of hypoxia, decompression sickness, Armstrong's Line, and extreme cold.
| Version | U-2 Dragon Lady |
| Manufacturer | Lockheed Martin |
| Country | USA |
| Type | High-altitude reconnaissance |
| Powerplant | GE F-118-101 engine (1x) |
| Thrust | 17,000 lbs |
| Length | 63 ft 19.2m |
| Height | 16ft 4.8m |
| Wingspan | 105ft 32m |
| Weight | 40,000 lbs 18,000kg (max takeoff) |
| Speed | 410+ mph |
| Ceiling | 70,000+ ft 21,212+ m |
| Crew | One (two in trainer models) |
| Unit cost | classified |
Click to compare with other aircraft!
Vote for us 
    |
 
|
 
|
Bombers
Bombers