The development of the SR-72 is seen as a response to advances in hypersonic technology by Russia and China. If operationalized, the SR-72 could be a game-changer in modern warfare, offering unparalleled speed and strike capabilities. (X)
New Delhi: The US Air Force (USAF) could soon unveil the world’s fastest aircraft, the SR-72 “Darkstar,” developed by Lockheed Martin. Designed to reach speeds of Mach 6.0, the SR-72 is expected to redefine aerial combat and intelligence operations. However, details about its timeline remain shrouded in secrecy, with some sources pointing toward a 2030 launch. The information has made the rounds on the internet as per Reports are circulating.
While official confirmations are sparse, conflicting reports have emerged. Some sources highlight delays, while others suggest significant progress is being made. According to a recent Aviation Week report, Lockheed Martin’s classified program encountered a $45 million budget overrun in the second quarter of 2024, bringing total losses since 2022 to $335 million. Despite these financial hurdles, the project appears to be moving forward, with speculation that the U.S. Air Force will ultimately support the costs.
SR-72/71 at the center scheme of things
Many argue that Lockheed Martin wouldn’t have invested heavily without a clear signal from the Air Force. The publication suggests that the SR-72’s development has continued under tight secrecy since 2018, indicating that operational deployment could be closer than anticipated.
The SR-72 aims to surpass its predecessor, the SR-71 Blackbird, which holds the record for the fastest manned aircraft at Mach 3.2. Unlike the SR-71, which primarily served as a reconnaissance aircraft, the SR-72 is designed not only for intelligence gathering but also for delivering hypersonic strikes. The unmanned aircraft could reach speeds exceeding 4,000 mph, enabling it to penetrate any airspace and strike targets across continents in under an hour.
The development of the SR-72 is seen as a response to advances in hypersonic technology by Russia and China. If operationalized, the SR-72 could be a game-changer in modern warfare, offering unparalleled speed and strike capabilities.
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