Overview

• A TU-2S from the 9th Reconnaissance Wing flew longer than 14 hours and covered over 6,000 nautical miles in a single sortie, marking the longest mission in the platform’s 70-year history.
• Pilots Cory “ULTRALORD” Bartholomew and Lt. Col. “JETHRO” combined for the highest total U-2 flight hours as they navigated above 70,000 feet and tested the jet’s operational and physiological limits.
• New mission planning software guided the complex cross-country route while the 9th Physiological Support Squadron and 9th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron ensured pilot safety and aircraft readiness.
• Flight planners integrated flyovers near the homes of fallen U-2 pilots as part of a tribute to seven decades of Dragon Lady operations.
• Air Force officials are evaluating whether to retire the U-2 in fiscal year 2026 or extend its service following the latest record-setting achievements.