English subtitles for clip: File:Lockheed U-2.ogv

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Routinely flown at altitudes over 70,000 ft,

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the U-2 pilot must wear a full pressure suit,

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similar to those worn by astronauts.

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The U-2 provides high-altitude, all-weather surveillance

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and reconaissance, day or night, in direct support

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of US and allied forces. It delivers critical imagery

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and signals intelligence to decision makers throughout

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all phases of conflict. The low-altitude handling

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characteristics of the aircraft and bicycle-type

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landing gear require precise control inputs during landing.

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Forward visibility is also limited due to the extended

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aircraft nose and taildragger configuration.

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A second U-2 pilot normally chases each landing

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in a high-performance vehicle, assisting the pilot by

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providing radio inputs for altitude and runway alignment.

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These characteristics combine to earn the U-2 a

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widely-accepted title as the most difficult aircraft

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in the world to fly.

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<i>Pilot on radio:</i> "Right rudder, right rudder, one, one."

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"Pull it up!"

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"Slight skip, yoke aft."