This will be the final manned ER-2 conversion from the current manned fleet as the current U-2 family is scheduled to be replaced by an all new version called the UQ-2/RQ-X/TR-X which merges the U-2S with the unmanned RQ-4 to create an optionally manned aircraft.
QuoteThis will be the final manned ER-2 conversion from the current manned fleet as the current U-2 family is scheduled to be replaced by an all new version called the UQ-2/RQ-X/TR-X which merges the U-2S with the unmanned RQ-4 to create an optionally manned aircraft.Is that actually funded, I thought it was just a lockheed proposal...
Quote from: kevin-rf on 09/29/2017 02:28 pmQuoteThis will be the final manned ER-2 conversion from the current manned fleet as the current U-2 family is scheduled to be replaced by an all new version called the UQ-2/RQ-X/TR-X which merges the U-2S with the unmanned RQ-4 to create an optionally manned aircraft.Is that actually funded, I thought it was just a lockheed proposal...As of 2017 LM SW is still proceeding with development at this time now called only TR-X seeking to kick off testing of 2 prototype aircraft by FY2022. Scaled back plans sees a one for one replacement of the entire U-2 fleet and a one for two replacement of the combined RQ-4 fleets. The USAF recently budgeted extending the U-2 retirement target to NET 2027 with LM ordered to devise upgrades that would create the U-2T.http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2017-03-20/reprieve-likely-u-2-dragon-lady