OVERFLIGHTS OF THE SOVIET BLOC

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: General CIA Records
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP62B00844R000200240007-0
• Release Decision: RIPPUB
• Original Classification: T
• Document Page Count: 1
• Document Creation Date: November 17, 2016
• Document Release Date: July 29, 1999
• Sequence Number: 7
• Publication Date: October 17, 1958
• Content Type: MEMO

Approved For Rase 2000/08/26 : CIA-RDP62B044R000200240007-0
17 October 1958
MEMORANDUM FOR: Director of Operations, DPS/DCI
SUBJECT: Overflights of the Soviet Bloc
Copy 1 of 5
CHAL 035+
1. The Intelligence Staff has completed a study of the vulnerability
of the U-2 to known Soviet defenses. In its research, the facilities of
081, Army, Navy and ATIC were utilized. The study involved air-to-air
missiles, air-to-air intercept utilizing the "zoom climb" and surface-to-
air missiles. Except for known and suspected surface-to-air missile sites,
it is felt that the U-2 will continue to have a high probability of success
in overflights for the next 150 days.
2. It is recommended that all planned overflight coverage utilizing
the U-2 be completed during this period. Authorization for seven (7)
successful overflights would be required to cover all the highest priority
targets. In addition to coverage of these, numerous high priority and
bonus targets would be obtained.
3. According to available information, this could represent the
last opportunity to obtain quality photographic coverage of the Soviet Bloc
nations, with the possible exception of shallow penetrations, for an in-
definite period. It is, of course, conceivable that successful utilization
of the Granger Black Box and effective operational results of camouflage
paint could extend the survivability prospects of the U-2 beyond the 150
day period referred to above; however, time still remains the most critical
consideration.
4. It is strongly recommended that every effort be made to obtain
authority for the required number of overflights during this period to
allow coverage of present and any anticipated requirements.
25X1A
FFC:mfl
1-2 - Addressee
3 - Intel
4 - 0ps chron
5 - CHILL chron
Approved For Release 2000/08/26 Cl
25X1A
40007-0