Didn't even know we were still frequently using the U2, but China is sure griping about it... | FerrariChat

Didn't even know we were still frequently using the U2, but China is sure griping about it...

Discussion in 'Aviation Chat' started by David_S, Aug 26, 2020.

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  1. David_S

    David_S F1 World Champ
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    David S.
  2. tazandjan

    tazandjan Three Time F1 World Champ
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    Terry H Phillips
    The U-2's sensors are mostly side looking now, so they do not have to directly overfly targets. If the Chinese are unhappy, mission accomplished.
     
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  3. David_S

    David_S F1 World Champ
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    From what I've read? Think you nailed it.

    Just gonna say? Thank goodness for the U2, SR-71, and every bits & bobs otherwise that nobody needs to know about! Aviation wise? Still think the U2 (speaking aircraft only) is such a cool, and rather simple thing. Kinda like tossing a glider WAY the heck up there. ;)
     
  4. tazandjan

    tazandjan Three Time F1 World Champ
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    They have been continually upgraded, from the J-57 from the F-100 and F102 to J-75 engines without afterburner from the F-105/106, and then with the B-2 F-118 turbofans. Needless to say, the F-118 is much more fuel efficient and pilot endurance now makes my eyes water. Especially in a full pressure suit. They flew with us out of Taif in Saudi Arabia and stayed up a long, long time.
     
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  5. kylec

    kylec F1 Rookie
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    They’re just upset that they can’t fly up there and run into it!
     
  6. MarkPDX

    MarkPDX F1 World Champ
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    My recollection is that there are around 30 left in the fleet. A guy I work with came to us from U-2s and it’s interesting to hear about though not sure it’s something I would wanna do. Wearing what is essentially a flight suit for long hours in a cramped cockpit with a weird catheter thing to pee in doesn’t sound like much fun.
     
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  7. zygomatic

    zygomatic F1 Rookie
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    For an quick look at U2 flight:

     
  8. airborne

    airborne Karting

    Feb 19, 2013
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    Northern VA
    The -101 engine finally gave the pilot a FADEC after all those years, which was a huge improvement. I was always amazed to see them in depot maintenance torn down. No main wing spar carry through structure in the fuselage. Just 8 bolts attaching each wing if I recall.
     
  9. Bob Parks

    Bob Parks F1 Veteran
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    What matters is how big those bolts are. The 707 wing was attached by 4 bolts but they were as big around as milk bottles. I'll bet that those 8 bolts attached to a beefy forged bulkhead ring. It's all in the engineering.
     
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