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.

In 1965, after hundreds of hours flown at high personal risk by an elite team of CIA and Lockheed test pilots, the A-12 was declared fully operational, attaining a sustained speed of Mach 3.2 (just over 2,200 miles per hour) at 90,000 feet altitude—an unbroken record for piloted jet aircraft.

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.

2 days ago · The A-12 is the forerunner of the SR-71 and has nearly the same shape and dimensions as its replacement. Designed to replace the U-2, the A-12 flew higher and four times as fast to outrun enemy defenses and gather intelligence. The A-12 is primarily an over flight vehicle unlike the SR-71.

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.

The A-12’s unique design and characteristics became the foundation for three other versions of supersonic aircraft that Lockheed built for CIA and the Air Force: the YF-12A, the M-21, and the SR-71.

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.

Lockheed’s design, the A-12, also would use the J58 engines. It would reach Mach 3.2 at up to 97,600 feet and have a range of around 4,600 miles. To save weight, Johnson decided not to construct the aircraft out of steel.