snip

In article . net,
UltraJohn ja
Barely started KR-2

either X-15,
drawbacks:
only a single-seater
_terrible_ handling characteristics
*damn* that "tow-plane" is expensive
XB-70
one sweet-looking plane, but
an excoriable safety record
and the hanger-expense is a killer.
or SR-71
world's fastest two-seater, but, d*mn,
the way she leaks fuel on the ground.
(there are GA planes that can fly for
an _hour_ or more, on what a BlackBird
on the ground leaks in one *minute*)

And that fuel cost more than the finest aged Whiskey.
Don't forget the upkeep and crew for the refueling plane as well.
They take off on minimum fuel, refuel and then go some where.

I think I'd like to have a fuel hungry Sukoi 37. I think that's the
designation. The one with vectored thrust.

But on a more pratical note the SAI 261?, or the latest model of the
F-33 Bo with a modern panel.


Roger Halstead (K8RI & ARRL life member)
(N833R, S# CD-2 Worlds oldest Debonair)
www.rogerhalstead.com