The Blackbird was a followup to the famous U2 Spy plane. However it could fly faster and higher than any other air-breathing aircraft. There was to be three series, a recon bomber, recon fighter and recon scout. The first Blackbirds, built for the CIA were called the A-12 (15 built) and were first flown in 1962. The aircraft on display at the US Space & Rocket Center is believed to be an A-12. This model was
was followed by the YF-12A (3 built) and then the most widely known SR-71 (31 built). After years of spy service, the Blackbird fleet has now been retired. Although immune from aircraft interception, they are vulnerable to SAMs. Their recon role has been taken over by satellites. The Blackbirds have numerous records that still stand. The Blackbird flew from Los Angeles to New York in just over one hour. Top speed was mach 3.2.
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