![]() SR-71 (SR- standing for strategic reconnaissance)īlackbird plane: The SR-71 plane was the very bleeding edge of technology and amazing considering its first flight was in 1964. Considering the potential of the A-12, USAF ordered a reconnaissance variant that would be bigger than the A-12 and able to host more signals and intelligence equipment, in addition to a greater fuel capacity. Nevertheless, the development of the aircraft would continue. The first variant of the plane named A-12 had its first flights on April 30 th, 1962, proving worthy of the investment. Lockheed’s task was to develop the fastest aircraft of that time, which would fly at extremely high altitudes and could not be intercepted by even the fastest Soviet aircraft. ![]() This incident served as an additional motive for Lockheed and the CIA to work on the development of the new aircraft. On May 1 st, 1960, the Soviet Air Defense Force managed to shoot down a U2 aircraft with surface-to-air missiles, capturing its pilot Gary Francis Powell and the majority of spying technology on the aircraft. The SR-71 Blackbird (right) parked next to the A-12 (left). Throughout its career, Blackbird would remain undefeated in the air, having escaped hundreds of enemy missiles and aircraft. It had a titanium body and incorporated the most innovative image and signals intelligence technology. Blackbird plane was powered by two Pratt & Whitney J58 engines which provided a thrust of 32,500 lbf each. ![]() Its small radar cross-section, paired with high speed, high altitude capabilities, and innovative defensive systems made the aircraft almost for radars. Named Blackbird due to its unique blue to black color, this aircraft would set numerous world records for speed and altitude. SR-71 was designed to outperform every Soviet aircraft and missile with speed and altitude following the 1960 incident when the Soviets shot down CIA reconnaissance aircraft 1960 and captured its pilot Gary Powers. Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird was a strategic reconnaissance aircraft developed for the United States Air Force.įor more than 20 years, this Lockheed plane served as the most important reconnaissance aircraft.
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