Intro
Uncover the differences between two iconic aircraft, the A12 and SR-71. Learn about their distinct designs, speed records, operational altitudes, and espionage capabilities in this in-depth comparison. Discover how these supersonic spy planes dominated the skies during the Cold War era, and which one takes the crown in terms of speed and secrecy.
The Lockheed A-12 and the SR-71 Blackbird are two of the most iconic and secretive aircraft in the history of aviation. Both were designed by Lockheed's Skunk Works, a legendary division known for pushing the boundaries of innovation and engineering. While both aircraft share some similarities, they have distinct differences that set them apart. In this article, we will delve into the 5 key differences between the A-12 and the SR-71.
Overview of the A-12 and SR-71
The Lockheed A-12 was a supersonic reconnaissance plane developed in the 1950s and 1960s. It was designed to gather intelligence and conduct reconnaissance missions over enemy territory. The A-12 was the precursor to the SR-71 Blackbird, which was developed in the 1960s and 1970s. The SR-71 was also a supersonic reconnaissance plane, but it was designed to be faster, more efficient, and more advanced than its predecessor.
Design and Development
The A-12 and SR-71 had distinct design differences. The A-12 was designed to be a more compact and lightweight aircraft, with a smaller fuselage and shorter wingspan. It had a unique design feature, known as the "chines," which were triangular-shaped protrusions on either side of the fuselage. The SR-71, on the other hand, had a longer fuselage and wingspan, and was designed to be more aerodynamic.
Difference 1: Speed and Performance
One of the most significant differences between the A-12 and the SR-71 is their speed and performance. The A-12 had a top speed of around Mach 3.2 (around 2,200 mph), while the SR-71 had a top speed of over Mach 3.5 (around 2,400 mph). The SR-71 was also more efficient, with a range of over 3,200 miles, compared to the A-12's range of around 2,500 miles.
Propulsion Systems
The A-12 and SR-71 had different propulsion systems. The A-12 was powered by a single Pratt & Whitney J75 turbojet engine, while the SR-71 was powered by two Pratt & Whitney J58 turbojet engines. The J58 engines were more powerful and efficient than the J75 engine, which contributed to the SR-71's superior speed and range.
Difference 2: Radar and Sensors
Another key difference between the A-12 and the SR-71 is their radar and sensor systems. The A-12 had a more basic radar system, known as the "ASG-18," which was designed to detect and track enemy aircraft. The SR-71, on the other hand, had a more advanced radar system, known as the "ASG-21," which was designed to detect and track enemy aircraft, as well as provide terrain-following radar (TFR) capabilities.
Electronic Countermeasures
The A-12 and SR-71 also had different electronic countermeasures (ECMs) systems. The A-12 had a basic ECM system, known as the " APR-9," which was designed to detect and jam enemy radar signals. The SR-71 had a more advanced ECM system, known as the " APR-12," which was designed to detect and jam enemy radar signals, as well as provide more advanced electronic warfare capabilities.
Difference 3: Materials and Construction
The A-12 and SR-71 were made from different materials and had distinct construction techniques. The A-12 was made primarily from aluminum, with some titanium and steel components. The SR-71, on the other hand, was made primarily from titanium, with some steel and aluminum components. The SR-71's titanium construction made it stronger, lighter, and more resistant to heat.
Cooling Systems
The A-12 and SR-71 had different cooling systems. The A-12 had a more basic cooling system, which used air-cooled radiators to cool the engines. The SR-71 had a more advanced cooling system, which used a combination of air-cooled and liquid-cooled radiators to cool the engines.
Difference 4: Cockpit and Avionics
Another key difference between the A-12 and the SR-71 is their cockpit and avionics. The A-12 had a more basic cockpit, with a single pilot and a more basic instrument panel. The SR-71 had a more advanced cockpit, with a two-person crew and a more advanced instrument panel.
Communications Systems
The A-12 and SR-71 had different communications systems. The A-12 had a more basic communication system, known as the "AN/ARC-50," which was designed to provide basic radio communication capabilities. The SR-71 had a more advanced communication system, known as the "AN/ARC-71," which was designed to provide more advanced radio communication and data link capabilities.
Difference 5: Operational History
Finally, the A-12 and SR-71 had distinct operational histories. The A-12 was operational from 1963 to 1968, and was used primarily for reconnaissance missions over Cuba and the Soviet Union. The SR-71, on the other hand, was operational from 1966 to 1998, and was used for a variety of missions, including reconnaissance, surveillance, and intelligence gathering.
Legacy and Impact
The A-12 and SR-71 had a significant impact on the history of aviation and reconnaissance. Both aircraft pushed the boundaries of speed, altitude, and range, and played a critical role in the Cold War. The SR-71, in particular, remains one of the most iconic and secretive aircraft in history, and its legacy continues to inspire and fascinate people around the world.
A12 Vs SR71 Image Gallery
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the differences between the A-12 and SR-71. Both aircraft are iconic and secretive, and their legacy continues to fascinate people around the world. We encourage you to share your thoughts and comments on this article, and to explore more about the history of aviation and reconnaissance.