U-2 Mods

The U-2 Mods program, as detailed in Line Item 11U200 of the Air Force's Fiscal Year 2026 Aircraft Procurement budget, is focused on the modification and modernization of the U-2S Dragon Lady platform. The U-2S is a high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft that plays a critical role in providing Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities to Combatant Commands, Joint and Combined forces, and the Intelligence Community. The primary objective of this line item is to ensure the U-2 fleet remains mission-capable and technologically relevant to support both peacetime and wartime operations.

One of the main goals of the U-2 Mods program has been the procurement and integration of advanced sensor systems, most notably the Advanced Synthetic Aperture Radar System (ASARS). ASARS enhances the U-2's ability to collect high-resolution imagery and intelligence data, which is essential for Sensitive Reconnaissance Operations as outlined in CJCSI 3250.01. These operations support the National Defense Strategy and include execution of Combatant Command operational plans, Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Response, countering violent extremist organizations, and treaty verification missions such as OLIVE HARVEST.

For Fiscal Year 2026, the budget request for U-2 Mods reflects a significant shift in program priorities. There are no procurement or research, development, test, and evaluation funds requested for U-2 modifications in FY26, indicating the planned divestiture of the U-2 platform. The justification for this change is that procurement funds previously allocated to U-2 Mods have been shifted to the Advanced Radar Systems Program Element, aligning with broader Air Force modernization and recapitalization efforts.

Despite the absence of new procurement funds in FY26, some residual obligations may be incurred by the U-2 program office. These include support for ASARS-2C kitting and fielding, as well as Avionics Technical Refresh efforts. The Avionics Technical Refresh is a prerequisite for the deployment of ASARS-2C, ensuring that the aircraft's onboard systems are compatible with the latest sensor technologies. These activities are necessary to maintain operational effectiveness during the transition period as the U-2 fleet is phased out.

The Initial Spares budget line, associated with U-2 Mods, includes allocations in prior years and for FY26, supporting the sustainment of existing modified aircraft. These funds are intended to ensure continued availability of critical spare parts for the U-2 fleet, minimizing operational disruptions during the divestiture process. The careful management of spares supports mission readiness and the safe operation of the aircraft until final retirement.

Program Elements 0305202F and 0305206F are referenced as the primary funding sources for U-2 Mods, with additional related elements such as 0604257F supporting broader ISR and radar modernization initiatives. The Air Force's approach reflects a coordinated effort to transition ISR capabilities from legacy platforms like the U-2 to newer systems, while ensuring that ongoing missions and treaty obligations are met during the interim period.