Myasischev M-55 Geophysica Reconnaissance aircraft

The Myasischev M-55 Geopsysica (Geophysics), NATO designation Mystic-B, is a high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft. It is a further development of the M-17 Stratosphera (Mystic-A), but fitted with two engines instead of one and has greater take off weight. Aircraft made it's maiden flight in 1988. It is similar in design and mission to the Lockheed U-2. After collapse of the Soviet Union military demand dropped and only few of these aircraft were built, however it remains in service with the Russian Air Force. Officially these spy planes perform scientific research roles.

   The M-55 Geophysica is a high-altitude, subsonic, single seat-aircraft, fitted with two Aviadvigatel PS-30 turbojet engines. These are mounted side-by-side behind a raised cockpit.

   This spy plane can carry 1 500 kg of sensors. Special pods with various equipment can be fitted. During flight reconnaissance equipment operates automatically.

Data is transmitted through the communication channel. It has a flight endurance of 6 hours 30 minutes.

   It is considered that the Geophysica is inferior to the US U-2R in performance, avionics and reconnaissance capability.

   A two-seat version was under development. Also a M-55RTR high-altitude ELINT version of the Mystic was proposed to India.

   It is believed that Myasischev design bureau is currently developing new reconnaissance aircraft, known as the M-60.