F-117A NIGHTHAWK
The USAF has scaled-back or dropped some upgrade packages intended to improve the Lockheed Martin F-117 low-observable characteristics for budgetary reasons, preferring to retain avionics and systems upgrades for its 54-strong fleet. The company continues to offer the USN a carrier-based variant of the F-117, the F-117N, following cancellation of the A/F-X naval strike aircraft. The F-117N would have a new wing, added horizontal tail, afterburning GE F414 engines and would be capable of carrying external stores.
U-2
Lockheed Martin is proposing to re-open the U-2 production line to meet US attrition and training requirements, while also offering new-build aircraft to meet the UK's ASTOR programme.
The USAF's fleet of U-2-Rs are being retrofitted with the GE-F118 85kN thrust turbofan for improved range, altitude and payload. The new engine avoids rising costs associated with operating the P&W J75 engine. Other upgrades include a new emergency-start and electrical generator systems now expected to increase the service life to 2020 and beyond. The upgraded aircraft is designated U-2S.
SR-71 BLACKBIRD
The USAF's Strategic Air Command first deployed the SR-71 on reconnaissance missions in 1966. It was the first operational aircraft capable of achieving speeds above Mach 3. The USAF now has two operational SR-71 aircraft in active service.
Source: Flight International
