The SR-71 Blackbird, an iconic long-range, advanced, strategic reconnaissance aircraft, was renowned for its unmatched speed ...

The SR-71 Blackbird, developed by Lockheed for the U.S. Air Force in the early 1960s, remains one of the most legendary and iconic aircraft ever built. As the fourth model in the Archangel family, the ...

In addition to record-breaking speed, the SR-71 achieved record-breaking altitude. Capable of sustained, horizontal flight at 85,000 feet, no airframe ever flew higher.

The SR-71 was so quick that it remains the fastest air-fed plane ever built — even today. With a top speed of Mach 3.3, the Blackbird could outrun missiles that might try to shoot it down.

The SR-71 set enduring records for horizontal flight altitude and non-rocket-powered speed, which remain unmatched today.

What You Need to Know: The legendary SR-71 Blackbird, capable of reaching Mach 3.0, set speed records and flew high-risk reconnaissance missions during the Cold War. Despite its speed, the Swedish ...