The sorties are pretty routine and we get to see them and speak to them on the odd other day, Iran is not on their direct flightpath.
However having read the latest AFM with some happy snaps from the PR9 and the amazing Recce capability I should imagine the U2 has some great Kodak moments too. The fact that they operate to within 50nm (or less) of the Iranian coastline and mainland at different points I am sure their wizzy bang kit will get some nice happy snaps.
The Iranian Air Defense capability with the Russian SA missile systems (possibly some of the latest generation kit) means the lads (and yep ladies!) give a little wide berth at the end of the day. The transit to Afghanistan by the PR9's (in there active days) and U2's puts them in a nice legal snooping distance of Iran so I am sure they get what they can.
Now before anyone cries COMSEC, Beadwindow or the like, the fact that they often work this part of the world as any other normal aeroplane on civil frequencies and controlled through civil agencies (and as in the case the other day via the airway!) should muffle your concerns....they might as well use the airbridges at our 'south west Asian location!'
Another reason why this article appeared in all the local newspapers when it did.
