SR-72 Blackbird

In 1998, the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird was officially retired, concluding its more than 30 years of service with the US Air Force. Throughout its three decades in operation, it set countless records, which Lockheed Martin aims for its secret successor, the SR-72 “Son of Blackbird,” to surpass in the future. Announced in 2013, the envisioned hypersonic aircraft might begin service as early as 2030, provided everything continues as planned.