U-2
The U-2 Spyplane was developed by the division of Lockheed called Skunk Works in the 1950's under great secrecy as a high altitude reconnaissance aircraft.
Over the years there have been 11 variations on the U-2 model with the one being used now by NASA being the U-2C.
In 1960 the U-2 demonstrated its vulnerabilty when the American pilot Frank Powers was shot down over Russia on a secret mission. This started the push for a predicessor to the U-2 wich was found in the SR-71.
The U-2 has one 17,000lb thrust Pratt & Whitney J57-P-13B turbojet and can fly at a cruising speed of 460mph.
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