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Now you, too, can read the manual for the U-2

Jan. 10, 2013

The operational manual for the U-2 spy plane was recently declassified. Now, thanks to the folks at the aviation site AVweb, the whole manual is available in PDF format online and can be downloaded. If you have ever wondered about how to, say, manage turbulent air in the U-2, now you can find out. But a high-speed internet connection will definitely help. The manual is 295 pages so be prepared to get a cup of coffee during the download:

http://www.avweb.com/pdf/lockheedu2utilityflighhandbook1959.pdf

The U-2 has a reputation for being tricky to fly. You can get a feel for this situation from a video the AVweb folks prepared with a U-2 pilot: http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/exclusivevids/ExclusiveVideo_U2CockpitTour_197436-1.html

About the Author

Lee Teschler | Editor

Leland was Editor-in-Chief of Machine Design. He has 34 years of Service and holds a B.S. Engineering from the University of Michigan, a B.S. Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan;, and a MBA from Cleveland State University. Prior to joining Penton, Lee worked as a Communications design engineer for the U.S. Government.