Developed by Lockheed? the aircraft was first flown secretly in 1955. It made its first over-flight of the Soviet Union in June 1956. The aircraft came to public attention when pilot Gary Powers was shot down over Soviet territory on May 1 1960. Variants of the U-2 continue operation today.
Physically, the U-2 looks like a glider, with a needle-like body and very long wings. It is also reportedly difficult to fly, as it is very easy to stall at its operating altitude.