U-2 Ramp goes up. (Digest).

Lockheed Martin delivered the first upgraded U-2S aircraft to the 9th Reconnaissance Wing at Beale Air Force Base in California. The Reconnaissance Avionics Maintainability Program (Ramp) brings three 6 x 8-inch multifunction displays, an up-front control and display unit and in independent secondary flight display system to the 1960s-vintage cockpits. The entire fleet of 31 U2-S models (U-2R shown) and four two-cockpit trainers will be modified before the programme is completed in 2007. The Ramp uses commercial off-the-shelf equipment, some of which is modified to meet special high-altitude requirements. Head-forward controls increase pilot situational awareness and replace the existing radio controls which were located on the left side panel, aft of the pilot, and awkward to reach in flight. (Lockheed Martin)

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