Lockheed ER-2 “High Altitude Research ” 809, NASA, 1999 Diecast - 1/72

This is a 1/72 scale diecast model from Hobbymaster of the Lockheed ER-2 “High Altitude Research ” 809, NASA, 1999.
Lockheed was authorised to manufacture a high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft in 1954. The renowned Kelly Johnson and Lockheed's Skunk Works were responsible for creating this aircraft. The aircraft was named "Dragon Lady" and designated U-2 (U=utility), a single-engine jet capable of providing images over Soviet territory day or night. During the Cold War, the USAF and CIA used the first test flight, which was conducted in 1955. Gary Power's U-2 was shot down over the Soviet Union in 1960, bringing the aircraft to the attention of the world.
The Dryden Flight Research Center (now Armstrong Flight Research Center) is home to the ER-2 (Earth Resources 2), a U-2 derivative flying in NASA's white livery. It is utilized for high-altitude civilian research in areas such as oceanic processes, atmospheric chemistry and dynamics, Earth resources, and celestial observations. ERAST, Earth Science Enterprise, and the Airborne Science Program are among the programs that use the aircraft. In a chase car, another pilot assists with landings at speeds exceeding 120 miles per hour (190 km/h).