Picking a single best fighter aircraft of all time is virtually impossible. Each plane was designed to excel in varying capacities—some excel because of stealth, others because of speed or agility, and many because they have a balanced combination of capabilities. What excels at one fight may not excel at another. Despite all this, some pilots always stand out from the pack for their combination of technology, combat capability, and endurance. Here are ten aircraft that still lead the pack in the skies.
10. Dassault Rafale (France)
The Rafale is as beautiful as it is lethal. France constructed it for what they describe as an “omnirole” mission, allowing it to fluidly alternate between air-to-air combat, ground attack, reconnaissance, and even nuclear missions. Its SPECTRA electronic warfare suite is among the world’s best, providing it with a superiority in congested airspace. It is not a true stealth jet, but with its agility, survivability, and flexibility, it remains one of the most feared fighters in the world.
9. Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet (USA)
Trusty and resilient, the Super Hornet is the workhorse of U.S. Navy carrier-based aviation. It’s an upgraded version of the original Hornet, capable of carrying heavier payloads, going farther, and withstanding the harsh rigors of carrier life. It’s not the most stealthy aircraft, but its reliability and combat track record have made it a Navy staple wherever the fleet sails.
8. Eurofighter Typhoon (Europe)
Conceived in European cooperation, the Typhoon was created to control dogfights but has developed into a complete multirole aircraft. Renowned for its extreme maneuverability and capacity to supercruise with ordinance loaded, it has only gotten better over the decades. New upgrades have enhanced its sensors and even enabled it to operate in concert with drones. Presently, it is one of the most advanced fighters in frontline deployment.
7. Sukhoi Su-35 (Russia)
The Su-35 lacks stealth, but it compensates with raw maneuverability. Its thrust-vectoring engines enable it to perform tricks that few planes can, and its long-range radar and heavy payloads make it a power in dogfighting. With its leading-edge electronic warfare systems and infrared sensors, it holds its own in nearly any fight.
6. General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon (USA)
The F-16, also called the “Viper,” has no equal. First taking to the skies back in the 1970s, it’s been updated for decades, with newer models featuring state-of-the-art avionics and sensors. It’s quick, agile, reasonably priced, and battle-tested in theaters of war around the globe. Not many fighters have had as long or successful a run, which is why it remains aloft after almost five decades.
5. Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor (USA)
The F-22 is still one of the most technologically advanced fighter planes ever constructed. It is the most stealthy, and it will cruise at supersonic speeds without the need for afterburners. The production run was cut short, so it is now scarce, but the Raptors that remain are among the world’s most feared aircraft. With stealth, speed, and maneuverability, it is still the standard for air domination.
4. Boeing F-15EX Eagle II (USA)
The Eagle II is the new installment of a legendary design. It can deliver more weapons than any other fighter—more than 20 air-to-air missiles and almost 30,000 pounds of payload. Capable of Mach 2.5 and supported by a perfect combat record, the F-15 platform has withstood time. With its advanced upgrades, the EX is designed to be relevant for decades.
3. Mighty Dragon (Asia)
Designed for stealth and long-range supremacy, this fighter is intended to strike deep into disputed territories while remaining concealed on radar. Its colossal internal weapon bays enable it to carry heavy ordnance without compromising stealth. Ongoing upgrades and continuous production render it one of the fastest-growing fifth-generation fighters globally.
2. Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II (USA)
The F-35 is not a fighter; it’s a command center for the battlefield. With 360-degree stealth, cutting-edge sensors, and unmatched data-sharing capabilities, it connects air, land, and sea forces in combat. It won’t win any speed records, but its potential to work with allies and orchestrate the battle makes it one of the most impactful aircraft ever constructed.
1. Sukhoi Su-57 Felon (Russia)
Su-57 integrates stealth shaping, super maneuverability, and sophisticated sensors in one aircraft. Although the stealth is not as polished as that of some Western aircraft, its speed, agility, and weapons capacity make it deadly. With increasing numbers of them going into service every year, it’s a bold move towards fifth-generation air-to-air combat.
The battle for air superiority never actually stops. With technology speeding ahead and new designs emerging, the rivalry between the world’s best fighters will only become more intense.
