The U-2 reconnaissance aircraft, which serves as America's "Sentinel of Peace" around the world, has exceptionally advanced electronic signals and imagery sensors to support intelligence requirements in all weather and light conditions. In peacetime, the U-2 is used for intelligence planning and warning. A version of the U-2 is used for earth-resources related programs, such as water resource evaluation, land use development, natural disaster assessment, and stratospheric sampling. Its wartime roles include battlefield surveillance, targeting, and battle damage assessment.
Early models of the U-2 began serving the country in the early 1960s. But today's U-2S brings much more than a heritage of outstanding performance. This aircraft is 40 percent larger and carries four times the original payload weight. Equipped with new electrical systems, new sensors and a new, high-efficiency GE F118 engine, the U-2S provides all the capabilities that made the aircraft the 1998 Collier Trophy award winner for outstanding aeronautical achievement.
The U-2 provides real-time intelligence information on a moment's notice. It is more flexible than a satellite and is deployable anywhere in the world. With its new upgrades and advanced sensors, the U-2's role as a critical reconnaissance and surveillance system is assured for decades to come.
Specifications
Crew
Pilot only
Ceiling
Above 70,000 ft / 21,336 m
Max. weight
40,000 lb / 18,144 kg
Cruise speed
475 mph / 764 km/hr
Range
Greater than 7,000 mi
Payload
5,000 lb / 2,270 kg
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