After 17 years grounded, the last Lockheed U-2 returns to the skies in a test flight in the USA

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After 17 years on the ground, Lockheed’s last U-2 returns to the skies on a test flight in the USA
After 17 years on the ground, Lockheed’s last U-2 returns to the skies on a test flight in the USA (X @zaphod58)

The last U-2 produced by Lockheed flew again after 17 years on the ground. The aircraft, number 80-1099, was severely damaged in 2008 when a hydrazine fire occurred during maintenance at Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates.

After years of unsuccessful repair attempts, the aircraft was sent to Palmdale, California, where it underwent a rebuild process and performed its first test flight in August 2025.

The model has a long service history, including operations during the Gulf War and missions from bases in the UK, South Korea, and the Middle East. Considered an important asset in intelligence gathering, the U-2 can change its flight paths mid-air, something impossible for satellites. Additionally, it carries more payload than the RQ-4 Global Hawk, initially planned as its replacement, and still performs roles that classified unmanned aircraft like the supposed RQ-180 cannot in publicly visible locations.

Although it was modernized and spared retirement in previous years, the U-2 fleet is still scheduled for retirement in 2026. However, the return of 80-1099 raises questions about a possible extension of its service life, as shifts in U.S. defense strategy could delay or even reverse the end of operations for the iconic “Dragon Lady.”

Source: The Aviationist | Photo: X @zaphod58 | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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