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Habu

Habu

9.9
A nickname pilots and crew use for the SR-71 Blackbird spy plane in Okinawa
  • proper noun
  • /ˈhæbu/
  • Jargon
: Habu
  • The nickname Habu became popular among aircrew stationed in Okinawa in the 1970s.

Examples

  • Many pilots at Kadena Air Base affectionately called the SR-71 the Habu during their missions.

  • The aircrew affectionately called the Lockheed SR-71 Habu.

  • Collectors often seek memorabilia featuring the Habu emblem from the reconnaissance squadrons.

  • Did you see the Habu fly over Okinawa yesterday?

  • Many pilots at Kadena Air Base affectionately called the SR-71 Blackbird the Habu during their missions.

  • The nickname Habu was used by aircrew stationed in Okinawa to refer informally to the SR-71.

  • Did you hear the aircrew refer to the Lockheed SR-71 as the Habu during their briefings?

Surface Forms

Habu main

Etymology

Habu was a popular nickname for the SR-71 Blackbird among aircrew in Okinawa. The name comes from the Okinawan 'habu' snake, and crew called the long, black, very fast plane Habu because it reminded them of the dangerous local snake.