U-2S 99RS on short final to runway 25

A U-2S during a sunset landing at homebase Beale AFB (CA). The 092 carries the famous 5th Reconnaissance Squadron "Black Cats" badge. The squadron is based Osan Air Base, South Korea as a Geographically Separated Unit (GSU) as part of the 9th Reconnaissance Wing.

With a blacked-out BB-tailcode and a 9th Reconnaissance Wing, marking, a Dragon Lady taxies back to its hangar at homebase Beale.

The U-2S only use a very short part of the runway for its take-off roll. It is very impressive to stand this close to the runway when the spy plane leaves the runway in a very steep climb.

This U-2S is awaiting clearance to enter the runway at Beale for a late afternoon sortie.

An U-2S turning onto final at homebase Beale AFB (CA).

Present in the static park at RIAT 1999. Note the coil of barbed wire ready to be placed around the aircraft once the crowds had dispersed at the the end of the day.

This very interesting U-2S is permanently assigned to flight test duties at Palmdale, it carries 'WR' tailcode as USAF's U-2 program management is based at Warner-Robins AFB, GA. Please note the golden area beneath the wing, when decending from high and cold altitude the freezing cold fuel remaining in the wing tanks creates ice on the underside as the aircraft enters the warm and humid air close to the ground. A long nose and many antennas have been fitted to the aircraft as well.