Mikoyan designed the MiG-25PD interceptor variant of the Foxbat specifically to counter high-speed reconnaissance aircraft such as the SR-71.

Two KC-135Q tanker squadrons (35 aircraft) were based at Beale to support the SR-71s. With a transfer rate of over 750 Imp gal per minute it took around 15-20 minutes to refuel the thirsty Blackbird. An SR-71 is seen here formating with a tanker prior to getting a full offload of JP-7.

Lockheed's SR-71 is one of the most impressive aircraft ever built.

After refuelling the afterburners are lit, providing a total thrust of 68,000lbs for the climb, acceleration and cruise at Mach 3.0. The SR-71's Pratt and Whitney J-58's are the only jet engines ever certified for continuous afterburner operations.