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The Fastest Military Jets in History

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SR-71 Blackbird

SR-71 blackbird engine start
NASA

Lockheed Martin broke the mold when it created this space-age, high-altitude stealth aircraft. Originally developed under the YF-12 interceptor program, the SR-71 Blackbird absolutely smashed world records for air speed time and time again. As a reconnaissance aircraft with no communications uplink, it had a very limited role in strategic surveillance. But it really bloomed in the hearts and minds of aerospace enthusiasts. Crushing a maximum speed record of 2,500 mph, the SR-71 Blackbird could skirt the very edge of the atmosphere at 85,000 feet. Awarded multiple distinctions for achievements in aeronautic design, performance, and versatility, this stealth aircraft could barely be seen and never hit. The Soviet MiG-25 Foxbat was the only aircraft in service that could approach catching up to the SR-71 and even it had a very difficult time trailing behind this legendary stealth aircraft.

    • Top Speed: 2,500 mph
    • Max Flight Distance: 3,337 miles on internal fuel