The U-2 Spy Plane Incident: A Cold War Crisis in the Sky
The U-2 spy plane incident of 1960 was a pivotal moment in the Cold War, exposing U.S. reconnaissance missions over Soviet territory and derailing diplomatic relations. When an American U-2 aircraft was shot down over the Soviet Union, it sparked an international scandal and dramatically increased tensions between the two superpowers.
What Is the U-2 Spy Plane?
The Lockheed U-2, nicknamed “Dragon Lady,” was a high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft developed by the United States in the 1950s. It was designed to fly above 70,000 feet — beyond the reach of Soviet radar and anti-aircraft missiles — to photograph military installations and gather intelligence on enemy activities.
Key Features of the U-2
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Altitude | Above 70,000 feet (21,300 meters) |
Mission Type | Strategic reconnaissance and intelligence gathering |
Manufacturer | Lockheed Corporation (Skunk Works) |
First Flight | 1955 |
The 1960 Incident
On May 1, 1960, U.S. pilot Francis Gary Powers