In the 1960s, military aviation reached a pinnacle of creation embodied by the Lockheed SR-71 spyplane. Though given many nicknames, including “Habu” (Japanese viper) and “Lady in Black”, undoubtedly the best known of its designations is “Blackbird”. This much loved strategic reconnaissance (SR) craft is fully realized in a hand-made mahogany model perfect for display.
The evolution of a covert legend
The SR-71 Blackbird was developed as a long-distance spyplane capable of entering and exiting enemy territory undetected. Designed by Lockheed Skunk Works under a shroud of secrecy, the first test flight occurred in December of 1964 to resounding success. Production began with each aircraft costing upwards of 30 million dollars; only 32 of the aircraft were ever built. In 1968, the specialized tools required to manufacture it were destroyed by the Department of Defense.
The forefather of stealth craft
Never intended for combat, one of the most important aspects of design was to minimize its radar signature. The aircraft’s unusual shape and angled surfaces deflect radar. Special radar absorbing materials were incorporated into its construction. A cesium-type jet fuel was used reduce exhaust visibility. Though these features significantly decreased its radar imprint, it was never a true stealth success. However, it was the first aircraft designed primarily to anti-radar specifications, paving the way for improved technology in later years.
The spyplane contained optical and infrared imagery systems, radar and electronic intelligence gathering systems. Its cameras could cover 100,000 square miles of terrain hourly. They could get clear pictures of a matchbox on the beach from 80,000 feet away.
An angel of acceleration
In its 30 years of active military service and despite more than 4000 attempts, the Blackbird has never been shot down. How is this extraordinary achievement even possible? The SR-71 Blackbird never fully met its stealth specifications, air traffic control could see from hundreds of miles away. What made it so successful as a spyplane? Its secret weapon was its unmatched speed.
The Blackbird could fly at velocities of up to Mach 3.2 at an altitude of 85,000 feet. It holds the enviable title of being the fastest manned aircraft in aviation history. Pilots describe the feel of the SR-71’s takeoff as a freight train rolling downhill, reaching a peak of 230 knots. It still holds the records both for highest sustained flight (85,068.997 feet) and absolute top speed (2,242 mph) for manned aircraft. If someone launched a missile at it, all they needed to do was outrun it.
An elite class of admirers
The SR-71 Blackbird attracts only a select class. Less than 500 people in the world have ever flown this plane, more people have been in space shuttles. Imagine the pride of having the intricate details of this classic aircraft duplicated in stunning accuracy in a scale model. Its sleek functionality is made even more special by the fact that this is a completely human designed machine; no computers were used in the development of the SR-71.
This lasting piece of aviation history is perfect to display anywhere in your home or office. The majestic SR-71 Blackbird, immortalized in a long lasting mahogany desktop scale model, will have you collecting compliments and envious looks for years to come.
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