The SR-71 was the most extraordinary aircraft ever flown, and it first flew in 1964, only 19 years after WW 2.

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ArishMell · 70-79, M

It is an odd looking thing but looking it up it soon becomes clear it shape is very much part of its intended function. I wonder if they were used very often, though likely that would still be classified information.

Bumbles · 51-55, M

@ArishMell Yes, they filled an intelligence gathering function between the U2 and spy satellites.

From 1966 to 1990, the SR-71 flew over 3,500 operational reconnaissance missions while logging 11,000 hours in a flight

ArishMell · 70-79, M

@Bumbles That number of missions in twentyfour years is a respectable career! It obviously proved its worth.