On 1st September 1974, Major James V. Sullivan (Pilot) and Noel F. Widdifield (RSO) shot across a radar-checked start line 80,000 feet above New York at a speed of over 2,000mph. Exactly 1 hour, 54 minutes and 56.4 seconds later they had set a new world speed record from New York to London. Their average speed was 1,807 statute mph over the 3,461 statute mile course, only slowing down once to refuel from a modified KC-135 tanker. The aircraft, which still holds a clutch of world records, was put on static display at the Farnborough Air Show that week. This was the first time the top secret aircraft had been on public display outside the United States.

The SR-71 Blackbird is the most famous reconnaissance aircraft ever to fly. It was renowned for its distinctive shape, dominated by the two giant engines, the all-over black livery and its ability to fly at up to three times the speed of sound. It could gaze down from enormous altitudes and keep tabs on Uncle Sam’s enemies around the globe.

Detailed features

Authentic GMax-built model

Fully working afterburners with modelled effect for realistic appearance

The model drips fuel on the ground – just like the real thing! Watch the fuel puddles grow beneath the wings

Animated engine air intake spikes move according to speed

Animated exhaust petals

Animated pilot figures

Operating cockpit canopies

Animated realistic-looking drag-chute for braking on the ground

Operating in-flight refuelling bay door

All flight surfaces are animated

Unique three-wheel main gears

Designed to be easy to operate and fly

Functional 2D panel

Clickable and animated VC (Virtual Cockpit)

Operating HUD (Head-Up Display)

Authentic sounds including realistic start-up sounds

Designed to fly at mach 3.3 and FL 850

Printed manual