Lockheed U-2 flight preparation showing the procedure prior to a flight. | War History Online

The Lockheed U-2 'Dragon Lady' had its first flight 70 years ago today, 1st August 1955. This U-2S at The Royal International Air Tattoo is newer but still almost 40 years old. I'm so glad I got to see this display as I've wanted decent U-2 images for a long time Beale Air Force Base #RIAT2025 #lockheedmartin #lockheedu2 #DragonLady #9threconnaissancewing | Turn 'n' Burn

19K views · 609 reactions | The aircraft on display at the museum is the last U-2A built. During the 1960s, it made 285 flights to gather data on high-altitude, clear-air turbulence and in the 1970s it flight tested reconnaissance systems. Delivered to the museum in May 1980, it is painted as a typical reconnaissance U-2. https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/Museum-Exhibits/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/195974/lockheed-u-2a/ | National Museum of the U.S. Air Force | Facebook