1:72 Scale Metal Diecast ? Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird ? Length: 17.75" Wingspan:9.25? This Blackbird model has a cockpit that can open and close. A pilot figure is included in the cockpit. The model has an optional positioned landing gear, which can be posed in the retracted or extended positions. The box includes a metal stand where the model can be attached for display. The stand is made entirely of meta. The wheels can roll freely and are quite smooth (so be careful where you put this thing, or it could roll downhill). The fuselage is all metal. The photos don't really make justice to how impressive this model really is. Spy - Stealth - low profile planes are quite hard to photograph (and make to look good) because of their reduced cross section, at 1/72 scale this model measures just about 18 inches long and has a wingspan of about 9/25 inches wide. This is really a "no-play" model or a "display-only" model. It is mostly metal and very heavy. It also has a number of antennas which look great but are very fragile. If you have small kids that like to play with your models, save yourself some frustration (and money) and wait till later to get a model like this one. The box is labeled as not suitable for children under 14. The Lockheed SR-71 "Blackbird" is a long-range, Mach 3+ strategic reconnaissance aircraft that was operated by the United States Air Force. It was developed as a black project from the Lockheed A-12reconnaissance aircraft in the 1960s by Lockheed and its Skunk Works division. Renowned American aerospace engineer Clarence "Kelly" Johnson was responsible for many of the design's innovative concepts. During aerial reconnaissance missions, the SR-71 operated at high speeds and altitudes to allow it to outrace threats. If a surface-to-air missile launch was detected, the standard evasive action was simply to accelerate and outfly the missile. The SR-71 was designed to have basic stealth characteristics and served as a precursor to future stealth aircraft.