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I was aware that EE Lightning and the Saab Draken could get to U-2 altitudes. DOn't think the Viggen could, though. Not at all sure it matters if your allies can intercept one, but the existence of one or two planes that CAN get up there brings to mind the question of when the enemy will field the same capability.
It probably helped fuel the development of the SR-71 / A-12/YF-12A, and neither of the two planes in question could intercept an SR-71 if it didn't want to be intercepted. I'd hazard an estimnate that the SR-71 could STILL show a clean pair of heels to any existing fighter aircraft, though I believe missiles are around that could probably get it.
Satellites...What's performing the SR-71 role these days?
It was certainly that; for a time I worked with a man who'd been on the first Squadron to get them, and they were puzzled to see three aircraft set up for QRA, but only two actually going, until, one day all three went. In the evening the CO came in, with a large photo, and said, "Here you are, lads, this is what you've been waiting for."
Winding the clock back a few weeks, the then Javelin-equipped Squadron would take off, to intercept incoming U-2 aircraft, but fell away well short.
The photo was of a U-2, with a Lightning at each wingtip, photographed, from above, by the third Lightning; he always wanted a copy of the photo, but it disappeared, never to be seen again.
The Lightning is said to be able to zoom climb to 70kft plus.
One of my favorites. We have the good luck to have one flying locally. There is a replica based at Flabob (short distance from Chino) and there is also a replica Caudron racer flying out of there, too ... but with a Czech LOM engine in place of the Renault. So we get to see these fly occasionally. I have sat in the Caudron and it is no place for anyone who is claustrophobic! There is barrely room for the head and I am only 5' 9" tall.
The Comet really is a beautiful aircraft.
Here is a pic of the local replica as it was being readied for first flight:
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And here it is in flight:
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Altogether a beautiful machine. They usually use the tailwheel, but fit the skid when they are operating from grass ... or DID. Today it's mostly the skid.
Here is the Caudron 460 replica in flight:
View attachment 298496
Maybe you can tell the canopy is JUST big enough for your head ...
It was based on the Gu-1, which was a copy of the P-39, so I imagine the Gu-1 would have had similar traits as the P-39...sadly, the Gu-1 didn't make it to production because all the prototypes crashed, each incident claiming a test pilot....it would appear this was never actually built and flown, but is a very interesting find nonetheless.
Now I have to find some data on it ... of the proposed design.
It appears you've never tried using your teeth......It would be like trying to remove a bra without fingers ... frustrating and never gonna' work...