The U-2 Spy Airplane In Instruction, Video and Photographs

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Mission

The U-2 provides high-altitude, all-weather surveillance and

reconnaissance, day or night, in direct support of U.S. and allied forces. It

delivers critical imagery and signals intelligence to decision makers

throughout all phases of conflict, including peacetime indications and

warnings, low-intensity conflict, and large-scale hostilities.


Features 

The U-2S is a single-seat, single-engine, high-altitude/near space

reconnaissance and surveillance aircraft providing signals, imagery, and

electronic measurements and signature intelligence, or MASINT. Long and

narrow wings give the U-2 glider-like characteristics and allow it to quickly

lift heavy sensor payloads to unmatched altitudes, keeping them there for

extended periods of time. The U-2 is capable of gathering a variety of

imagery, including multi-spectral electro-optic, infrared, and synthetic

aperture radar products which can be stored or sent to ground exploitation

centers. In addition, it also supports high-resolution, broad-area synoptic

coverage provided by the optical bar camera producing traditional film

products which are developed and analyzed after landing …


CONTENTS By CHAPTER:


 -   Intro Video - U-2 Fueling, Taxi and Takeoff in Southwest Asia (USAF, 2010)


1.  Introduction Story - U-2 Overflights and the Capture of Francis Gary Powers, 1960


2.  U-2 News Stories - 1960s to Current Era (USAF)


3.  Photographs (USAF)


4.  Through 7. -  Early 1960s Francis Gary Powers Newsreel Videos


8.  U-2 Plane Schematics, Illustrations and Diagrams (1960s, USAF)