Because it wasn't enough to just acknowledge that wiretaps happen, the makers of the M-55 Geophysica Russian spy plane are looking to turn it into a roaming cell phone tower. Actually the project seems ideal for humanitarian efforts. It can be used to cover remote areas without normal access or to help emergency workers in disaster areas where telecommunication lines have been wiped out. Still, Russian SPY planes + cell phone coverage? Creeeeeepy.
The Myasishchev M-55 is a high-altitude reconnaissance plane from the Myasishchev design bureau designed initially to intercept American reconnaissance balloons, which, coincidentally have also been used for mobile coverage.
Unfortunately for the M-55 Geophysica, launched in 1988, the Soviet Union didn't last long enough to put the plane to active reconnaissance use. Only five recon models were built, but other versions of the plane are still in use for research purposes.
Once all the weapons have been unloaded, the plane is able to carry a large payload (54,013 lb) at high altitudes, which lead to its use in a 1996 study of the Arctic Stratosphere. It's range and altitude also make it ideal to provide a wide area of coverage.
Earlier in October, the manufacturer announced that "The contract is conclude on flights execution in Malaysia in order to demonstrate the capabilities of M-55 “Geophysica” aircraft in the version of air telecommunication platform. The aircraft transition flight and demonstration flights are planned to be performed in February-March 2008."
We think that means the project is moving forward.
Incidentally the M-55 is also being developed as a launching craft for Space Adventures' Cosmopolis XXI space tourism vehicle. The day a team of rescue workers can jet around providing necessary telecommunications coverage to earthquake victims and then jaunt off into space for a quick break is the day the Red Cross never has to ask for volunteers again.
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