Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird - Wikipedia
The SR-71 was developed as a black project reconnaissance aircraft during the 1960s by Lockheed's Skunk Works division, initially as a bomber variant of the Lockheed A-12, requested by Curtis LeMay, before the program focused solely on reconnaissance.
What are the differences between the SR 71 variants?
Dec 4, 2017 · There were three SR-71 variants, the A and B (trainer) and the C was built from a crashed YF-12 and a static SR-71 test rig. If you measure them in stealth, max altitude or speed.
The OXCART Family - A-12, YF-12, SR-71, and M21 Blackbirds
SR-71 Blackbird The best known version of the A-12 (right) is the SR‑71 Blackbird (left), whose nickname has become eponymous with the entire set of OXCART variants. In December 1962, the Air Force ordered six “reconnaissance/strike” aircraft for high-speed, high-altitude flights over hostile territory after a nuclear attack—hence its ...
OXCART vs Blackbird: Do You Know the Difference? - CIA
As a modified version of the A-12 OXCART, the SR-71 Blackbird was about six feet longer, weighed an additional 15,000 pounds fully loaded, had a more prominent nose and body chines, had a two-seat cockpit, and carried additional optical and radar imagery systems.
SR-71 Online - The Blackbird Archive
Welcome to the Blackbird Archive: One of the best resources on the Internet for information, photos, and diagrams pertaining to the A-12, YF-12, SR-71, and D-21. This archive contains history and specifications on all Blackbird variants and most other associated aspects.
The Distinct Differences Between The A-12 And SR-71
Nov 5, 2018 · At first glance, you might think that the SR-71 and the A-12 are the same aircraft but they do have a few distinct differences. Both of these jets were built for the purpose of reconnaissance, the A-12 for use by the CIA and the SR-71 for the US Air Force.
In their day, the A-12, YF-12, M-21, D-21, and SR-71 variants outperformed all other jet airplanes in terms of altitude and speed. Now retired, they remain the only production aircraft capable of sustained Mach 3 cruise and operational altitudes above 80,000 feet.
SR-71 Online - Blackbird Archive Introduction
Dec 26, 2024 · The Blackbird Archive at SR-71 Online exists in remembrance of the greatest air-breathing aircraft ever built, the Blackbird. At this site, you will find an in-depth look at all variants of the Blackbird and their careers as high-speed air vehicles.
What Made The Lockheed SR-71C Hybrid Trainer Aircraft Unique?
Dec 18, 2023 · There were three variants of the SR-71 developed. The SR-71A was the main production variant, with 29 aircraft in service. The SR-71B was a modified variant used for pilot training, with two aircraft built.
Aircraft Factsheets: Lockheed A-12 / SR-71 - Aviamagazine.com
In-depth review on America’s mach3+ spy plane. Lockheed’s SR-71 Blackbird first flew in 1964 and was decommissioned in 1999. Not known until the mid nineties is that the SR-71 was developed from the top secret Lockheed A-12.