SR-71 Blackbird

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.