The SR-71 is perhaps the most iconic Cold War spy aircraft, famous for many record-setting flights. Seemingly impervious to loss by enemy defenses, a dozen Blackbirds were lost to accidents.

This incredible aircraft was the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird. First taking to the skies in 1964, ... In total, 32 Blackbirds were built, and while 12 were lost, none were shot down in combat.

O n this day in aviation history, December 22, 1964, the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird made its first flight. A favorite of many ...

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’s operational missions began in 1968, during the Vietnam War. The Museum’s Blackbird was no exception. It arrived at Japan’s Kadena Air Base in late September 1969, and flew its ...

The SR-71’s operational missions began in 1968, during the Vietnam War. The Museum’s Blackbird was no exception. It arrived at Japan’s Kadena Air Base in late September 1969, and flew its ...

The SR-71 Blackbird is one of the United States' most recognizable and iconic aircraft.Its design is impressive, and while the U.S. only built 32, it remains a favorite of hobbyists and enthusiasts.

4,000 Missiles Fired: No Hits on SR-71 In an interview with Air and Space Magazine in 2014, Blackbird RSO Major Jerry Crew recounted the moment a Blackbird airframe was targeted by a surface-to ...

SR-71 – A Titanium Aircraft. The Blackbird was the first to utilize titanium alloy ... yet a dozen were tragically lost in accidents. ... each flight of the SR-71 was more like a space launch of ...

A veteran U.S. Air Force pilot and volunteer at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., has given us a small glimpse of what it was like to fly the SR-71 Blackbird.