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U-2 HistoryThe U-2 Spy plane, also known as the Lockheed U-2, is as it's name suggests, a spy plane. During the Cold War, the United States wanted to know what the Soviet Union was up to. The Air Force asked multiple companies to give Proposals. Lockheed engineer Clarence Johnson won out over the other companies, winning a 22 and a half million dollar contract for 20 planes. The first plane was flown on August 1st, 1955.

Interesting FactsThe U-2 can provide surveillance in all weather, at 70,000 feet. It airplane is not only for use by the Air Force. They have been used for satellite data calibration and natural disaster relief among other things. According to the Air Force's web site, the U-2S holds the title for the most difficult plane in the world to land - a pilot in a high speed vehicle is needed to help the land properly! There are many different versions on the U-2, including the U-2S, U-2R and the WU-2

General Characteristics of a U-2SPrimary Function: High-altitude reconnaissance
Contractor: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics
Power Plant: One General Electric F118-101 engine
Thrust: 17,000 pounds
Wingspan: 105 feet (32 meters)
Length: 63 feet (19.2 meters)
Height: 16 feet (4.8 meters)
Weight: 16,000 pounds
Maximum Takeoff Weight: 40,000 pounds (18,000 kilograms)
Fuel Capacity: 2,950 gallons
Payload: 5,000 pounds
Speed: 410+ miles per hour
Range: 7,000+ miles (6,090+ nautical miles)
Ceiling: Above 70,000 feet (21,212+ meters)
Crew: One (two in trainer models)
Unit Cost: Classified
Initial operating capability: 1956
Inventory: Active force, 33 (5 two-seat trainers and two ER-2s operated by NASA); Reserve, 0; ANG, 0
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