Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird

24 Apr 2026 · © Unknown

Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird on display at a museum, the legendary Mach 3 reconnaissance aircraft famous for its speed and stealth.

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Rare Bird, Vintage Voyager, Military Maverick

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Aviation History

The SR-71 Blackbird holds the world record as the fastest air-breathing manned aircraft ever flown.

Fleet Rarity

Only 32 built; most are museum pieces today.

Record Flights

Set Los Angeles to Washington DC flight record in 64 minutes; several speed and altitude records.

Safety & Events

Numerous successful reconaissance missions over hostile territory during the Cold War; none were lost to enemy action.

Future Outlook

Retired; preserved in museums including the one in this photo.

Pratt & Whitney J58 (JT11D-20)

Engine

16.94 m

Wingspan

32.74 m

Length

5,400 km (ferry range); 3,200 km (operational)

Range

3,540 km/h (Mach 3.2 at altitude)

Speed

2 (pilot and reconnaissance systems officer)

Capacity

78,000 kg

MTOW

5.64 m

Height

2 × 145 kN (32,500 lbf) with afterburner

Thrust

Approx 110 dB (no ICAO rating; pre-noise standard military)

Noise