First Reconnaissance Squadron T-38 Talon’s fly in a four-ship formation over California, June 30, 2025. The T-38 is a twin-engine, high-altitude, supersonic jet trainer used in a variety of roles because of its design, economy of operations, ease of maintenance, high performance and exceptional safety record. (U.S. Air Force photo by Frederick A. Brown)
The 1st Reconnaissance Squadron is responsible for training all High-Altitude Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance aircrew for the U-2S Dragon Lady and the RQ-4 Global Hawk. Aircrew members consist of pilots and mission planners for the U-2S, and pilots and sensor operators for the RQ-4. Training for all U-2S pilots includes additional qualification in the T-38A Talon, the companion trainer to the U-2S.
The squadron flies over 5,400 U-2S/T-38A training hours and 2,400 RQ-4 combat support hours annually. Guided by the 9th Reconnaissance Wing motto “One team – One fight”, the rigorous flying training programs produce 24 U-2S pilots, 48 RQ-4 pilots, and 36 RQ-4 sensor operators annually. The squadron’s outstanding record reflects the dedication and professionalism of the elite group of instructors, enlisted, and civilian members of the squadron.
Pilots and sensor operators who complete the approximately three month RQ-4 training syllabus become experts in high-altitude Remotely Piloted Aircraft operations and are assigned to the 12th Reconnaissance Squadron at Beale Air Force Base, or the 348th Reconnaissance Squadron at Grand Forks Air Force Base. Pilots interested in flying the U-2S apply to the program voluntarily. They undergo an intensive two-week interview process in which their flying ability, judgment, and professionalism are evaluated over three flights in the TU-2S two-seat trainer. The applicants who successfully pass the interview process are assigned to the 1 RS where they begin training in the T-38A. Once they are qualified in the T-38A, pilots will complete the initial and high-altitude mission qualification in the U-2S and are assigned to the 99th Reconnaissance Squadron at Beale Air Force Base.
Source: Beale AFB