Lockheed X-7: America’s Secret Hypersonic Spy Before the SR-71

Lockheed X-7 - Discover the remarkable story of America's groundbreaking ramjet-powered unmanned aircraft from the 1950s. This video explores how the "Flying Stove Pipe" reached speeds of Mach 4.3 (2,910 miles per hour) using technology decades ahead of its time. Learn about its innovative recovery system, steel construction before titanium was widely available, and why it outperformed defensive missiles during Cold War testing. From its development in 1946 to its final flight in 1960, the X-7 paved the way for modern hypersonic flight and unmanned technology. See rare footage and technical details of this classified program that led to the AQM-60 Kingfisher and influenced later aerospace innovations.

Watch to learn how the Lockheed X-7 helped shape the future of hypersonic flight, drone warfare, and aerospace innovation.

00:00 - Intro Retro Transport
00:05 - Lockheed X-7 History
02:51 - Outro Retro Transport

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