The Lockheed A-12 is a retired high-altitude, Mach 3+ reconnaissance aircraft built for the United States Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) by Lockheed's Skunk Works, based on the designs of Clarence "Kelly" Johnson. The aircraft was designated A-12, the twelfth in a series of internal design efforts for "Archangel", the aircraft's internal ...

Nov 5, 2018 · At first glance, you might think that the SR-71 and the A-12 are the same aircraft but they do have a few distinct differences. Both of these jets were built for the purpose of reconnaissance, the A-12 for use by the CIA and the SR-71 for the US Air Force.

The General Dynamics/McDonnell Douglas A-12 Avenger II was a proposed American attack aircraft from General Dynamics and McDonnell Douglas. It was to be an all-weather, carrier-based stealth bomber replacement for the Grumman A-6 Intruder in …

CIA developed the highly secret A-12 OXCART as the U-2’s successor, intended to meet the nation’s need for a very fast, very high-flying reconnaissance aircraft that could avoid Soviet air defenses. CIA awarded the OXCART contract to Lockheed (builder of the U-2) in 1959.

May 9, 2022 · The Lockheed A-12 spy plane was developed for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) for service during Project Oxcart. While it had the potential for a long career, its niche but vital service led to its early retirement just 10 months after being deployed to Asia.

CIA developed the highly secret A-12 OXCART (above right) as the U-2 spy plane’s successor, intended to meet the nation’s need for a very fast, very high-flying reconnaissance aircraft that could avoid Soviet air defenses. It became operational on November 12, 1965.

The Lockheed A-12, colloquially referred to as Archangel 12, was a marvel in aviation engineering, making its mark during the Cold War era. This article delves into the historical context behind its development, the intricacies of its design, its unmatched performance metrics, and its role in military and combat scenarios.

Feb 26, 2018 · Page details technical specifications, development, and operational history of the Lockheed A-12 (Archangel 12) High-Altitude Strategic Reconnaissance Stealth Aircraft including pictures.

Oct 20, 2024 · What You Need to Know: In October 1967, during the Vietnam War, a CIA-operated A-12 “Oxcart” spy plane flew high-speed reconnaissance missions over Hanoi. Pilot Dennis Sullivan navigated the...

The A-12 is the clandestine forerunner of the famous SR-71 Blackbird. The aircraft were nearly the same shape and dimensions. Both are over 100 feet long with a 55-foot wingspan, and weighed in between 120,000 (54,431kg) and 140,000 pounds (63,503kg) when fully fueled.