The Central Intelligence Agency and Overhead Reconnaissance; The U-2 and OXCART Programs, 1954-1974

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46
Secret NOfi6fltN
Chapter 2
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speed of Mach 0.8 or 460 knots at altitude. Its initial maximum alti­
tude would be 70,600 feet and the lllltimate maximum altitude would
be 73,100 feet. According to these early December 1954 specifica­
tions, the new plane would take off at 90 knots, land at 76 knots, and
be able to glide 244 nautical miles from an altitude of 70,000 feet.
After discussing the reconnaissance bay with James Baker, Johnson
had worked out various equipment combinations that would not ex­
ceed the weight limit of 450 pounds. Johnson ended his report by
promising the first test flight by 2 August l 955 and the completion of
four aircraft by I December I955.':
Skunk Works Design Staff
" Kelly Johnson. ·•A High-Altitude: Rcconnai~san(;C: Aircraft," 9 Dc:cc:mbc:r 195-i.
Lockheed Contract Filc:s. OSA Records (S).
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