Tuesday, October 16, 2012

All About The Lockheed Blackbird And Reconnaissance Aircraft

By Leigh Bean


Over the years, the Air Force has evolved in terms of strategies. Furthermore, the use of different types of technology has advanced significantly. The Air Force is the primary military organization wherein a range of aircraft is used for different functions and purposes. Aerial reconnaissance is a strategy used by the Air Force for many years. One of its most popular crafts is the Lockheed Blackbird.

Aerial reconnaissance pertains to reconnaissance conducted by an unmanned aerial vehicle. Among the various intelligences a reconnaissance aircraft carries out are imagery, signals, measurements and signatures. The aerial vehicles are engineered to adapt to the various contexts involving reconnaissance.

Aerial reconnaissance is a system that was invented by the French Air Force. Around the time of the revolution, balloons were used so as to explore threatening territory. The main purpose of such system, as established by the French Air Force, is to give aid to ground forces when threats have reached their territory.

Today, majority of reconnaissance aircraft are equipped with complete features. Furthermore, much of the strategic work regarding surveillance and investigation has been passed on to satellites that are attached with cameras. Even so, there are many reconnaissance aircraft which still serve the Air Force today.

The most popular reconnaissance aircraft proves to be the Lockheed Blackbird. Although such aircraft is retired by the Air Force, during its service, many important strategic duties were carried out successfully. The advanced and long range aircraft was capable of operating at high altitudes and great speeds. It was known as the most adequate and efficient strategic reconnaissance aircraft, particularly due to its stealth in surmounting threats.

One of its most significant duties was the detection of a missile. When missile launches occurred, the aerial vehicle worked at high acceleration. It was greatly evasive in outrunning the missile, thus allowing it to hold the world record for being the fastest manned aircraft. It has maintained its title until today.

Although the aircraft was widely known for its military operations, it eventually had diplomatic roles. It served a purpose during peace negotiations, as well as an effective large scale instrument for research. The aircraft also had the ability to take surveillance photographs of the positions of certain enemies when at battle.

The Lockheed Blackbird was operated by highly skilled air crew. The crew was required to be sufficiently protected due to frequent flying at high altitudes. They were required to wear hard hat helmets, and were provided with heavy duty breathing apparatus. They also wore Nomex flying suits, which aided significantly in balancing air pressure. Moreover, the cabin was highly pressurized so as to suit a specific altitude.

Although majority of reconnaissance aerial vehicles are retired, there are several that were advanced in terms of its engine capacity and features so as to continue to serve the Air Force. It is a fact that the Lockheed Blackbird is the one strategic reconnaissance aircraft which provided great services to the Air Force. Although retired, it still maintains its title, and more importantly, the services and functions it has provided the Air Force will not be forgotten.




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