Due to operational losses, the U-2R fleet was down to ten aircraft in 1975. By the mid-1970s a high-altitude, long endurance platform was required for the USAF's stand-off target location systems. The pilotless designs available proved problematic, amd in 1977 the U-2R was put forward as a substitute. In 1978-79 production of the U-2R resumed, the 'new' aircraft being named TR-1 (TR - Tactical Reconnaissance), supposedly to escape from its dubious past. It was a move intended largely to appease the British government, as most of the aircraft would be British-based.
The TR-1 first flew on 1st August 1981, and the TR-1B trainer on 28 February 1983. The TR-1s continued to operate from Britain, as had the U-2s, with a unit at Mildenhall, Suffolk operating the TR-1 and SR-71 between 1979 and 1983. Then the 17th Reconnaissance Wing was established at Alconbury, its TR-1 complement building from February 1983 to a total of 14 aircraft by March 1985. The last TR-1A, serial 80-1099, was accepted by the USAF on 3rd October 1989.
They played a major role in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. In October 1991 the TR-1 designation was dropped, and the fleet reverted to U-2R or U-2RT (later, TU-2R). The fleet has undergone upgrades, including the fitting of F118-GE-101 turbofans, to produce the U-2S or TU-2S (two-seater). The U-2S is the last of the series to see service, most recently over Kosovo from bases at Istres, France and Sigonella, Italy.
Twee uitvoeringen mogelijk;
- TR-1A.
- ER-2 NASA.
