U-2A Dragon Lady, 1/72 - Hobby Boss 87270

Availability scheduled for September 2026.

The 87270 reference from Hobby Boss reproduces the Lockheed U-2A Dragon Lady, a high-altitude American reconnaissance aircraft, as a plastic model kit to be assembled at 1/72. This early version of the famous U-2 is distinguished by the fineness of its fuselage and its immense wingspan, particularly highlighted at this scale.

The U-2A Dragon Lady

Designed in utmost secrecy by Lockheed under the direction of Clarence “Kelly” Johnson, the U-2 made its first flight in August 1955. Conceived for strategic reconnaissance missions at very high altitudes, it played a major role during the Cold War. The U-2s, in particular, provided crucial intelligence during the October 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.

Its silhouette is instantly recognizable: a narrow fuselage, an advanced cockpit position, and wings with a very large span, designed to operate in the very upper layers of the atmosphere. The U-2A is one of the first operational versions of this family of aircraft that remains an iconic part of reconnaissance aviation.

The Hobby Boss 87270 model kit

This injection-molded plastic kit includes over 150 parts spread across 6 sprues, as well as 6 clear parts. The finished model measures 210.1 mm in length with a 339.6 mm wingspan. These dimensions make it possible to recreate the Dragon Lady’s very sleek profile while keeping a size suitable for a 1/72 collection.

The landing gear can be displayed in ground or flight configuration. The landing gear bays are detailed, and the kit includes wing-end support parts, called “pogo,” which are characteristic of the U-2 during ground operations.

Decals and finishing

The decal sheet includes routing markings for the wings, as well as NACA civilian decorations and USAF military markings. Careful work on the long wings, careful treatment of the clear parts, and methodical application of the decals will help bring out the unusual lines of this reconnaissance aircraft.

As with any assembled plastic model kit, assembly requires suitable tools, model glue, and paints selected based on the chosen decoration. Applying a primer before painting helps achieve a consistent finish and reveals any preparation flaws.

Technical specifications

• Brand: Hobby Boss
• Reference: 87270
• Type: assembled plastic airplane model kit
• Subject: Lockheed U-2A Dragon Lady
• Scale: 1/72
• Length (assembled): 210.1 mm
• Wingspan: 339.6 mm
• Number of parts: over 150
• Sprues: 6
• Clear parts: 6
• Decals: NACA and USAF