Saturday 13 October 2012

Facts About Aerial Reconnaissance And The Lockheed Blackbird

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.

The French innovated the use of reconnaissance aircraft in carrying out surveillance work. It was during the first world war that such strategy and means of surveillance was used. The initial purpose and function of reconnaissance aircraft was to provide assistance to ground forces.

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.

Aside from its stealth, it was also known for its great ability to detect an incoming missile and subsequently outrunning it. It had the characteristic of being evasive, unlike other aerial vehicles. In the late seventies, it achieved the world record for fastest airspeed.

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.

Widely experienced and skilled crew manned the Lockheed Blackbird. The cabin in the aircraft was specifically pressurized so as for the aircraft itself and the crew to withstand high altitudes. Moreover, the crew was efficiently protected. They were made to wear hard hat helmets, heavy duty flying suits, and pressure demand oxygen masks.

Many reconnaissance aircraft have been retired. One of them was the popular Lockheed Blackbird. However, some continue to render services for the Air Force today. They have also been significantly advanced and improved. It is also a fact that potential air crew manning innovated reconnaissance aircraft have further honed their knowledge and ability to fly and operate aircraft.




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