AiP Adventures in Plastic

US Air Force SR-71 Blackbird “Record Breaker” Reconnaissance Aircraft (1/72)

The SR-71 Blackbird was a long range, advanced strategic reconnaissance aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin in the 1960s. With its distinctive sleek profile and unmatched speed, it could cruise above Mach 3 at altitudes exceeding 85,000 feet, staying well beyond the reach of surface to air missiles. Powered by twin Pratt & Whitney J58 engines, the SR-71 carried sophisticated sensors and cameras, enabling high altitude intelligence gathering without entering hostile airspace.

In September 1974, SR-71 number 61-7972 set a transatlantic speed record, flying from New York to London in just 1 hour, 54 minutes, and 56 seconds, a record that still stands. This feat underscored the aircraft’s extraordinary performance and solidified its legendary status. Retired in 1998 due to operational costs and advances in satellite technology, the SR-71 remains one of the fastest manned aircraft ever built.

• Multiple markings including transatlantic speed record aircraft 61-7972.

Scale, 1/72.

Note, requires paint and glue, not included.