Century Wings “Wings of Heroes” Series Diecast Model

Lockheed SR-71A Blackbird – “61-7976”, 9th SRW, USAF, Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, 1977

1:72 Scale.  Length: 17.75".  Wingspan: 9.25"


Limited Edition of 500 Models Worldwide

The 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing was established at Fairfield-Suisun AFB, California on April 25, 1949. After flying a wide variety of reconnaissance aircraft, including the RB-17, RB-29 and B-36, the Squadron was equipped with the legendary SR-71 Blackbird in 1966 shortly after moving to its present home at Beale AFB in California. The bases west-coast location provided an ideal launching point for many long-distance SR-71 missions over Southeast Asia during the Vietnam conflict in the late 1960s and early 1970s. In addition to Beale, the 9th SRW deployed several detachments to other bases around the world. Detachment 1 was stationed at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan.

The Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird was an advanced, long-range, strategic reconnaissance aircraft operated by the U.S. Air Force. It was developed from the Lockheed A-12 as a black project by Lockheed’s “Skunk Works” division in the 1960s. First flown on December 22, 1964, the SR-71 entered service in 1966. During reconnaissance missions, the SR-71 was flown at high speeds (Mach 3+) and high altitudes, allowing it to outrace any threats. If a surface-to-air missile launch was detected, the standard evasive action was to accelerate and outfly the missile. The aircraft served with the US Air Force from 1964 to 1998. A total of 32 SR-71s were built; 12 were lost in accidents but none lost to enemy action. Since 1976, it has held the world record for the fastest manned aircraft, a record previously held by the YF-12.

Century Wings offers a wide selection of high quality, pre-built, diecast model airplanes. Each model is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using specifications of the original aircraft. They are constructed with precision made diecast metal and some plastic components.

This model of an SR-71 Blackbird by Century Wings features: