The SR-71 Blackbird

The CIA A-12 Blackbird Program

 

The A-12 started out as an USAF interceptor to replace the cancelled F-108A Rapier. In October 1962, CIA authorized the Skunk Works to study the feasibility of modifying the A-12 to carry and deploy a reconnaissance drone for unmanned overflight of denied areas. The project was codenamed TAGBOARD.

SR-71A Blackbird #17958 / #2009 (Record Holder)

SR-71A Blackbird #17958 / #2009 (Record Holder)

10 May 1966 First SR-71A #958 delivered to Beale AFB, CA USAF Pilots:Doug Nelson/ Pennington (LSB)(LSW says 4 Apr 1966)

Author: SR Admin
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