Mach 3 Flight: The Thermal Nightmare of the SR 71 The SR 71 Blackbird was an extreme piece of avionic engineering designed to fly at Mach 3. Operating on the edge of space, the air friction generated so much heat that the titanium panels were designed to fit loosely on the ground, causing the plane to leak fuel until it expanded in flight. To see how this visceral machine ruled the skies, follow for more. Links: Sword and Pen: https://linktr.ee/Infinite_Jest_Media #SR71Blackbird #TechSpotlight #