The long-discussed sequel to "Top Gun" appears to be inching closer to reality.

Producer Jerry Bruckheimer has released a photo of himself and star Tom Cruise taken during a meeting about the project. "Just got back from a weekend in New Orleans to see my old friend @TomCruise and discuss a little 'Top Gun 2,'" he tweeted.

The follow-up to the 1986 blockbuster has been in development since at least 2010, but plans were briefly derailed by the 2012 death of original director Tony Scott, who intended to step behind the camera again.

Val Kilmer, who played Iceman in "Top Gun," announced in August that he's on board for the sequel, but cautioned it could be a while before production begins. Cruise has spoken more cautiously about reprising his role as Maverick, acknowledging last year that the sequel would be "fun to do," as long as the jets are real and not CG.

Skydance’s David Ellison has said there’s an “amazing” role for Cruise, but insisted “there is no ‘Top Gun’ without Maverick.”

The sequel is said to focus on drone technology and the possible end of the era of fighter pilots.