The United States Air Force may already have a successor to the legendary SR-71 Blackbird, according to Nicholas Drummond, a military analyst and former British Army officer.
Drummond shared this information on the platform X, citing rumors from the RIAT airshow in the UK according to Tech.
Speed is a Critical Focus
The aviation industry of the 21st century continually pushes technological boundaries, striving for new milestones. Among these pursuits, speed remains a critical focus. Since 1976, the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird has held the record as the fastest military aircraft in the world, reaching an incredible speed of 3,419.1 km/h. However, it appears that the US may have developed an even faster aircraft.
Drummond reported on X that "indiscreet public comments from industry insiders suggest the US Air Force has developed a hypersonic aircraft to replace the SR-71." This new aircraft is rumored to achieve speeds exceeding Mach 5, or 6,125 km/h.
Inspired by Top Gun
According to Drummond, the new US design is a high-altitude, long-range strike and reconnaissance aircraft with a dual propulsion system, drawing comparisons to the Darkstar concept from "Top Gun." Although these reports remain unconfirmed by American officials, the potential development of such an aircraft would mark a significant leap forward in aviation technology.
The SR-71 Blackbird, renowned for its unparalleled speed and reconnaissance capabilities, first flew in December 1964 and was produced between 1963 and 1969. It remained in service until 1998 (with NASA until 1999). Out of the 32 SR-71s built, 12 were lost in accidents.
Revolutionize Militairt Aviation
Powered by two Pratt & Whitney JT11D-20B turbojet engines, each producing 145 kN of thrust, the Blackbird boasted a wingspan of nearly 17 meters and a length of just under 33 meters. Its operational ceiling was 36.5 km, and it had a range of over 5,100 km without aerial refueling.
The SR-71's remarkable performance was not only demonstrated during its record-setting flights in the 1970s but also during reconnaissance missions, such as the one over Libya in 1986. On its return, it entered French airspace without clearance, prompting the French to scramble Mirage fighters, which failed to intercept the Blackbird due to its superior speed.
While the SR-71 remains the fastest aircraft on record, the potential development of its hypersonic successor could revolutionize military aviation once again.