This video, released by the Central Intelligence Agency for historical purposes, shows us not only the U-2 spy plane’s development, but also glimpses of “Watertown Strip,” which sprung up from the desolate Groom Lake to become .

The early ‘60s logistical train shown in the video and , along with Area 51’s close historical association with nearby Las Vegas, are details that are just as amazing as the aircraft themselves.

Clarence “Kelly” Johnson is the Babe Ruth of aerospace design. Aircraft programs under Johnson were

Today, Watertown Strip is a sprawling and , with rows of massive hangars and ancillary testing facilities. It even has its own airline, something we will discuss in great detail in an upcoming Flight Club special feature.

New images of America’s historic top-secret military aerospace testing facility have been posted at

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