The US will use U-2 reconnaissance aircraft to monitor the border with Mexico
The United States has decided to use U-2 high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft to monitor the southern border with Mexico. This was announced by Air Force Chief of Staff General David W. Alvin. The aircraft will operate together with RC-135 Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft and drones.
Here's What We Know
The Pentagon has confirmed that the U-2 has already flown to support US efforts to control migration flows. Back in 2021, the Biden administration used these aircraft at the border for a similar purpose. Border security has become a priority military mission under Trump, with the use of air and sea reconnaissance aircraft and army helicopters.
The U-2 remains one of the oldest reconnaissance aircraft in service with the US Air Force, but it has been modernised to carry three bays of reconnaissance equipment. It is equipped with a multispectral camera, radar surveillance and electronic intelligence systems. Operating at altitudes of up to 21,000 metres, the U-2 can conduct surveillance without entering the range of enemy air defence systems.
The U-2 Dragon Lady. Illustration: Karol Prokopiuk
In 2020, Lockheed Martin completed testing of the new SYERS-2C multispectral camera, which is installed on the U-2S. It supports the transmission of images to the fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II and F-22 Raptor fighters.
Source: X
