Lockheed U-2

Harveyy 🇬🇧

1h ago · © Unknown

A legendary Lockheed U-2 spy plane on display at an airshow, framed by dramatic skies.

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General Dynamics (now Lockheed Martin) F-16 Fighting Falcon

Aircraft

U-2 LOCK

USAF standard black reconnaissance livery

Airline

United States Air Force

Manufacturer

Lockheed

Gear

Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max back triple camera 2.22mm f/2.2

Achievements

Rare Bird, Vintage Voyager, Military Maverick

3 badges earned

Photo grade

Bronze

Score: 74.0

U-2's presence is strong but tilted horizon and people foreground detract. Moody sky adds atmosphere.

Insights

Aviation History

The Lockheed U-2 is one of the most legendary reconnaissance aircraft in history, first flown in 1955 and instrumental in Cold War intelligence, including the 1960 Powers shootdown incident.

Fleet Rarity

Very rare; fewer than 30 airworthy U-2s exist worldwide, all with the USAF.

Record Flights

Has flown extreme high-altitude missions globally, including many over the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

Safety & Events

Most famously involved in the 1960 U-2 incident with pilot Gary Powers. Has had various incidents due to challenging flight regime.

Future Outlook

Still operational as of the 2020s, but likely to be retired or replaced within the coming years.

Specifications

Pratt & Whitney J75-P-13B turbojet

Engine

31.39 m

Wingspan

19.13 m

Length

11,265 km

Range

805 km/h

Speed

1 pilot (plus reconnaissance equipment)

Capacity

18,144 kg

MTOW

4.88 m

Height

73.6 kN (16,500 lbf)

Thrust

Unknown (military, not rated by ICAO civil standards)

Noise