Francis Gary Powers: U-2 Spy Pilot Shot Down by the Soviets

This collection provides yet another view of US intelligence activities vital to national security. It showcases the use of state-of-the-art technology and air reconnaissance to gather intelligence on the Soviet bomber force, missle program, and nuclear program. The U-2 program entailed grave risks both internationally and domestically, including domestic political ramifications when a successful program is exposed. Specifically, the collection includes CIA Director Dulles' testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and the CIA report from its own Board of Inquiry into Powers' conduct during his flight and capture. In addition, other documents include his trial in the USSR, his exchange for another Soviet spy held by the US, and his activities once he left the CIA.