Pride of the Skunkworks (2 Signatures)

Dimensions: 18" x 16.5"
Signatures: Robert J. "Bob" Gilliland & Ben Rich

Plane Type: SR-71 Blackbird



An aircraft that needs no introduction, the SR-71 is an icon of aviation. Developed from the YF-12 high speed, high altitude interceptor, the SR-71 Blackbird is known for its high performance. The SR-71 Blackbird operated at altitudes of up to 90,000 feet and speeds over 2000 MPH. The airplane was painted all black to help dissipate the intense heat generated at those speeds. The SR-71 Blackbird is also designed to stretch a bit due to the thermal expansion created from the intense heat generated at high speeds. Used extensively on spy missions during the Cold War, the Blackbird was the fastest and highest-flying manned aircraft ever built. SR-71s were retired from Air Force service in 1997, but several were flown by NASA for research purposes until 1999.

About our Framing:
This Aviation Collectible is exquisitely Custom Framed with double mattes and comes in either a ¾” or 1 ½” Matte Black Frame. We’ve opened up the matte on the bottom to showcase the authentic pencil signature of the pilot/s who flew this aircraft. All of our Aviation Collectibles come with a Certificate of Authenticity to ensure that the signatures are real and your purchase will be collectible for years to come. Signatures:

Robert J. "Bob" Gilliland - Bob made the first flight of the SR-71 on December 22, 1964, taking the aircraft to Mach 1.5 and 50,000 feet altitude. He was the principal test pilot for the SR-71's development program.

Ben Rich - Ben was the second director of Lockheed's Skunk Works from 1975 to 1991, succeeding its founder, Kelly Johnson. Regarded as the "father of stealth," Ben Rich was responsible for leading the development of the F-117, the first production stealth aircraft. He also participated in various design aspects of the F-104, U-2, SR-71, A-12, and F-22 among others. PLANE JUNKIE - Pride of the Skunkworks (SR-71 Blackbird)