Arresting hook

[Jug]

The only other USAF aircraft that was tested and actually used to launch and recover onboard an Aircraft carrier was the U-2G. It had a strengthen tailhook, and strengthen landing gear. A U-2 was launched by the US Navy in the mid-60's off the USS Ranger to observe the French nuclear tests near Tahiti. There were a series of issues with the plan and in the end all three groups (CIA, US Navy, and USAF) backed out of using U-2's onboard. Those aircraft modified were reverted back to regular inventory.

 

All true. However, the USAF U-2R and U-2S still uses carriers to this day as alternate landing sites. The outer six feet of the Dragon Lady (R and S model) wings fold nicely to fit the carrier elevator. The tailhook is added for the particular mission, but probably would not used since the approach speed of the U-2 is around 60-70 knots (with 40 degrees of flaps) and the carrier would have to slow down to get the Lady aboard if there were any wind around (when is there not wind at sea). We used to fly down from Beale AFB to NAS Lemore in middle California to practice approaches to the carrier deck painted on their runway there. Use of a carrier does requires the U-2 motor to be running and if the motor is running the U-2 can fly a LONG way. Actually, it can glide a long way without the motor running, but a carrier landing is out of the question in that circumstance. There are, therefore, only a few very extreme circumstances where a U-2 would consider coming aboard a carrier and it would not be nearly the spectacular crash and dash stuff the Navy does on a daily basis. In comparison, it is rather benign.

 

Back to the original subject, USAF fighters usually have a tailhook for departure end engagement (when you have run out of runway on landing) whereas the Navy boys look for an approach end engagement (higher speed, lots more stress, and much bigger hook). USAF has attempted approach end engagements when the wheels are stuck up (long way to slide), but convincing the pilot to attempt it is quite a bit more tedious.

Edited February 28, 2007 by Jug