The Lockheed A-12 Oxcart is a jet documented to be faster than the SR-71 Blackbird.
The Lockheed A-12 Oxcart: Surpassing the Blackbird's Speed
While the SR-71 Blackbird holds the official speed record for a piloted aircraft, agreements between Lockheed and the CIA confirm that the A-12 Oxcart achieved a slightly faster documented speed.
Understanding the Relationship and Records
The Lockheed A-12 Oxcart and the SR-71 Blackbird share a strong family resemblance because the SR-71 was developed as a spinoff of the A-12. Both aircraft were designed for reconnaissance missions and were capable of extremely high-altitude, high-speed flight.
- Lockheed A-12 Oxcart: This aircraft was primarily used by the CIA for covert reconnaissance. Despite the SR-71's public acclaim, the A-12 had a documented top speed that surpassed its more famous successor.
- SR-71 Blackbird: Operated by the U.S. Air Force, the Blackbird is widely recognized for its official world speed record for air-breathing piloted aircraft. However, the internal documentation suggests the A-12's performance was, in fact, swifter.
This distinction highlights that while the SR-71 holds the official title in public records, the A-12 has the internal, documented claim to a higher top speed.
