Historical: 

Aircraft #61-7974 has the unfortunate distinction of being the last SR-71 to be lost, ending an 18 year accident-free streak for its type; the longest of any USAF aircraft. The accident occurred on April 21st, 1989 when the right engine exploded after take-off from Kadena, severing hydraulic lines and disabling flight controls. After an initial attempt to regain control of the aircraft for a single-engine emergency landing, the crew were forced to eject, leaving the crippled aircraft to crash off the coast of Luzon in the Philippines.

Designed as a long-range, strategic reconnaissance aircraft, The Lockheed SR-71 first flew on December 22, 1964. Nicknamed "The Blackbird," this highly-advanced aircraft was believed by many to be ahead of its time. It was capable of mach 3 and still holds the record for the fastest "air breathing manned aircraft" in the world. Its speed and ability to operate at high altitudes served as a defensive feature; when attacked by surface-to-air missiles, the pilot needed only to accelerate to avoid being struck. Only 32 SR-71's were operated during its 34-year service history, and though 12 were destroyed in accidents none were lost to enemy attack.

Info: SR-71A Blackbird - USAF 9th SRW, #61-7974 Ichi Ban, Kadena AFB, Japan