The History of 68-10329

[UKdragon]

As you know, 68-10329 is currently resident at Fairford. I just posted an article on my website about this veteran jet: https://dragonladytoday.com/2022/05/14/ ... urite-u-2/

[Macclad51]

Thank you for this article Chris, a very interesting read. I couldn’t help but notice though that it’s first flight was in August 1967, a year befor it’s FY of 68. I guess it was probably due to it being funded by the CIA.
Thanks again
Steve

[nitro999]

Very interesting, thanks for sharing

[luxto]

Thank you for this article Chris, a very interesting read. I couldn’t help but notice though that it’s first flight was in August 1967, a year befor it’s FY of 68. I guess it was probably due to it being funded by the CIA.
Thanks again
Steve

Think I'm correct in saying that the Federal FY 1968 budget started on the 1st July'67 and ended on the 30th June'68 so its first flight was in FY'68. Possibly right about the funding though.

[luxto]

Adding a bit of history to Chris's excellent write up, 329 is no stranger to the UK having been here several times in the past - Upper Heyford in 1970, Mildenhall in '81 and Alconbury at various times in the 80's and 90's. Its first time at Fairford was on the 17th March'04 and is currently on its 7th visit/deployment here.

[mushbuster]

Graham, you are correct on the US fiscal years. For years up till 1976 the US fiscal year changeover was June/July. In 1976 they had a 3 month transitional budget period between FY76 and FY77. FY77 started the 1 October to 30 September FY cycle. These days FYs are usually applied to the year the contracts are awarded, orders confirmed and/or expensed so it is normal to see and an aircraft with a FY serial a couple of years before its first flight.
I am surprised 329 did not come to Fairford in the 90s during the 95 detachment or passing through?

[Pune]

Great article, thanks for posting, well worth the read and thanks for the other information added, very informative.

[johnwayne]

Yeah great additional info on 329 Chris . You're the man

[Stroudy]

Superb info, thanks.