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For visual and SAR, sure, but there are other missions like electronic warfare and signals intelligence that are still well served by aircraft.

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Not by a mach 3+ aircraft. Good luck getting signals through the plasma of your own wake!

Plasma is electrically conductive. Modulate it as needed, in realtime.

Enjoy the dynamically phased plasmarray.

I don't think the Blackbird has the sort of engine that likes being "modulated".

What do the engines have to do with plasma around the hull, or rather its leading edges, caused by supersonic speed, which never ever even enter them?

And if you're thinking of the exhaust, why would that matter at all for signals reception and transmission, with the exception of a small cone from right behind?

Those wouldn't likely fall under NASA's remit and budget, though?

No, but in Trumpistan, does it matter?

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