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The SR-71 could be fitted with one of a variety of sensors depending on the needs of the mission. Surveillance cameras and radar packages could be installed in one of the SR-71's many equipment bays and detachable nose. These components worked in coordination with each other to gather, record and deliver information in near real-time. An almost unbelievable feat at that time.

 

By varying the nose and payload areas, the SR-71 could be configured for various types of reconnaisance. Camera and radar packages provided their own unique view of the target, enabling personnel to view and interpret the data with a high degree of accuracy.

 

Most missions needed several components installed in their companion hardware located in other bays. Most bays were specifically designed to house a certain type of equipment and the necessary connections to the aircraft systems.