Something I learned this year: the US still flies occasional missions using the Lockheed U-2, originally introduced in 1955.

Its integrated landing gear is in a straight line, nose and tail. When it takes off and lands it must have two chase cars with detachable landing gear. Those cars haul ass until it’s airborne and to catch it as it touches down. Normally the USAF used Mustangs or Corvettes. The drivers are part of the maintenance crew.