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| Myasischev M-55 Geophysica |
Militarymedia.net - The Myasischev M-55 Geopsysica (Geophysics), the Western reporting name Mystic-B, is an altitude surveillance aircraft. This is a further development of the M-17 Stratosphera (Mystic-A), but it is equipped with two engines instead of one and has a greater take-off weight. This aircraft made its first flight in 1988. Its design and mission is similar to that of the Lockheed U-2. After the collapse of the Soviet Union's military demand fell and only a few of these aircraft were built, but remain in service with the Russian Air Force. Officially this spy plane performs a scientific research role.
The M-55 Geophysica is a high-altitude, subsonic, single seat aircraft equipped with two Aviadvigatel PS-30 turbojet engines. These are installed side by side behind the raised cockpit.
This spy plane can carry 1,500 kg of sensors. Specialized pods with various equipment can be installed. As long as the flight surveillance equipment operates automatically. Data is transmitted via communication channels. This aircraft has a flight endurance of 6 hours 30 minutes.
Geophysica is considered inferior to the US U-2R in terms of performance, avionics and reconnaissance capabilities.
A two-seat version is in development. Also a high-altitude electronic intelligence version of the M-55RTR was proposed to India.
The Myasischev design bureau is believed to be developing a new reconnaissance aircraft, known as the M-60.
