War Machines of Staggering Costs: Unveiling the Priciest Military Vehicles Ever Built
11. U-2 Dragon Lady
Joined the Service: 1957 Producing Company: Lockheed Martin
Price: *$9.1 million
Description:
The U-2, commonly referred to as the "Dragon Lady," is a single-engine reconnaissance aircraft capable of reaching extremely high altitudes. Originally flown by the CIA, it is currently operated by the U.S. Air Force (USAF) and continues to gather intelligence regardless of weather conditions or time of day. NASA also utilizes the U-2 for various research purposes.
Conclusion The U-2 Dragon Lady remains a vital asset in aerial reconnaissance, showcasing its enduring capability to provide critical intelligence and support to both military and scientific missions!
U-2 Dragon Lady Description:
Lockheed Martin unveiled the first design of the U-2 Dragon Lady in 1953. It was subsequently flown over key locations such as Vietnam, Cuba, China, and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Today, the cost of a single U-2 unit is $9.1 million, significantly higher than its original price in 1955—over 1,000 times more.
The demand for the U-2 stemmed from its exceptional high-altitude flying capabilities, which were crucial during the Cold War. Soviet fighters, radar, and missiles posed significant threats, leading designers to consider a novel approach: instead of countering these threats directly, why not simply fly above them, out of their reach?
Conclusion The U-2 Dragon Lady's innovative design and strategic advantage in high-altitude reconnaissance have solidified its role as a critical asset in intelligence gathering throughout its operational history!
