What You Need to Know: The legendary SR-71 Blackbird, capable of reaching Mach 3.0, set speed records and flew high-risk reconnaissance missions during the Cold War. Despite its speed, the Swedish Saab JA-37 Viggen once managed a missile lock on the Blackbird during an interception over the Baltic Sea, aided by routine SR-71 flight paths and skilled Swedish pilots.

-This friendly interaction showcased the Viggen’s advanced avionics and mission planning.

-In 1987, Swedish Viggens also aided an SR-71 that had suffered engine failure, escorting it to safety in West Germany, demonstrating the close cooperation between the Swedish Air Force and the U.S.

The fastest plane to ever fly retired from service decades ago. When the American-made SR-71 Blackbird was introduced during the Cold War, its innovative technologies, electronics, and avionics pushed it to feats never before seen.........

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