REVELL 1/48 Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird | Unboxing & Review |  

Thanks BJ for a another great review! The sharp pointed cones at the front of the turbojets are shock cones, and computer controlled to direct rivers of fluid into the massive turbo jets without directing negative pressure shock waves into the powerplants. The Blackbird does not have panel lines BJ. The aircraft is coated in an emulsion of tiny steel balls suspended in an emulsion that both dissipates heat and absorbs and dissipates radar signature. This emulsion consists of top secret materials and would feel like rubber to the touch. A very, very hard rubber. Friction at speeds over Mach 1 heat up the surface of the Blackbird (actually a very dark Blue) to well over that of boiling water, stretching the length of the airframe by over 18 inches at operating altitudes and under operating velocities. To put it in a simple to digest way, the SR-71 could fly and operate over three times faster than a bullet. The whole airframe is in effect BJ one lifting surface, with inviscid pressure streams directed over the airframe being guided by the vanes embedded in the airframe to both maximise efficiency and prevent the build up of shock waves. As far as markings go the airframe with the large white cross was the testbed (preceded by the YF-12A, which was also designed to carry a drone); the other set of markings belongs to an operational airframe. If memory serves me correctly, this aircraft flew out of both Beale AFB in the States, Japan and the UK. Whether these aircraft are still on operation would be highly classified information. Don't always believe the information leaked to the media concerning operations the USAF does not want you to know about. I think the USAF may have decided to restrict operations of the Blackbird when reliable data came to light regarding the capabilities of the Mig-25 Foxbat. Anyway, a great review of this kit BJ; many thanks!