Clarence “Kelly” Johnson

Clarence “Kelly” Johnson was the chief designer of the SR-71 Blackbird, one of the most iconic aircraft ever designed. Johnson was a legendary figure in the aviation world, known for his genius-level intellect and his ability to think outside the box. He was the founder of Lockheed Martin’s famous Skunk Works division, which was responsible for some of the most groundbreaking aircraft ever developed, including the U-2 spy plane and the F-117 Nighthawk stealth fighter.

The SR-71 was designed in response to a request from the US government for a high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft that could fly faster than any missile or fighter plane that could be launched against it. Johnson and his team began work on the project in the early 1960s, and the result was a truly revolutionary aircraft.

The SR-71 was powered by two Pratt & Whitney J58 turbojet engines, which allowed it to reach speeds of over Mach 3 and altitudes of over 85,000 feet. The aircraft was designed to operate at extremely high temperatures, with its titanium skin capable of withstanding temperatures of over 600 degrees Celsius.

Today, the SR-71 remains a symbol of American technological prowess and innovation, and it serves as a reminder of the incredible achievements that can be accomplished when talented individuals are given the freedom to think creatively and push the boundaries of what is possible. Clarence “Kelly” Johnson was the driving force behind the SR-71, and his legacy continues to inspire engineers and designers today.

images & sources:

https://wall.alphacoders.com/big.php?i=412204

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kelly_Johnson_(engineer)