Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird

[Mike]

[Truckman]

I don't know if the audio talked about this, but if my memory is correct (always doubtful) the KC-135 shown in the refueling operation was also running its engines on the same, very expensive JP-7 fuel as it was pumping into the SR-71, simply because there were no separate fuel compartments for the tanker's operation...When Independent Voter sees this, he may be able to verify this...Initial production of JP-7 by Shell Oil Company, of which Jimmy Doolittle was vice-president at the time, depleted their stock of the distillates needed to produce the insecticide Flit, causing a nationwide shortage......Ben

[Honda]

That is an awesome bird. We have one on display at our local aviation museum. The technology that went into to it's making is incredible.

[wacojoe]

Have we stalled out on manned flight technology? No men back to the moon since that era and no airplane approaching the Blackbird’s limits since.

[Honda]

Have we stalled out on manned flight technology? No men back to the moon since that era and no airplane approaching the Blackbird’s limits since.

I think the advances in satellite technology have rendered spy planes somewhat obsolete.

[Truckman]

I think the advances in satellite technology have rendered spy planes somewhat obsolete.

Correct...And although the Blackbirds dodged over 4,000 missiles which were launched against them, without a single one even coming close, I don't think they could keep that record today......Ben