How Today’s Fighter Jets Stack Up Against Yesterday’s Icons

42. MiG-35 (Fulcrum-F)

• Year introduced: 2020
• Type: Multi-role fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,491 mph
• Country of origin: Russia
• Manufacturer: Russian Aircraft Corporation MIG
• Production run: 10

MiG-35 (Fulcrum-F) (continued)

The MiG-35 (Fulcrum-F) is the newest and most advanced version of the MiG-29, which was a successful, smaller fighter jet. It is designed to do many different jobs in the air and uses the latest Russian technology for finding, following, and attacking targets. It utilizes modern AESA radar, optical tracking system, increased payload and range, upgraded engines with optional thrust vectoring, and high maneuverability.

41. Sukhoi Su-57 (Felon)

• Year introduced: 2019
• Type: Multi-role stealth aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,616 mph
• Country of origin: Russia
• Manufacturer: Sukhoi OKB / United Aircraft Corporation
• Production run: 25

Sukhoi Su-57 (Felon) (continued)

The Sukhoi Su-57 (Felon) is Russia’s first stealth, twin-engine multirole fighter, developed to replace older MiG-29 and Su-27 aircraft. This fifth-generation jet aims to combine stealth capabilities with supercruise, supermaneuverability, advanced avionics, and a major payload for both air-to-air and ground attack roles.

40. Chengdu J-20 (Black Eagle)

• Year introduced: 2017
• Type: Multi-role fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,305 mph
• Country of origin: China
• Manufacturer: Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporation (CAIC) / Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC)
• Production run: 55

Chengdu J-20 (Black Eagle) (continued)

The Chengdu J-20 (Black Eagle) is a twin-engine, all-weather stealth fighter designed mainly for air superiority with a secondary precision strike capacity. It has evolved into several variants, including models with new engines, thrust-vectoring control, and a twin-seat version for aircraft teaming.

39. F-16V (Viper)

• Year introduced: 2017
• Type: Multi-role fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 917 mph
• Country of origin: United States
• Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin / Hellenic Aerospace Industry
• Production run: 100

F-16V (Viper) (continued)

The F-16V (Viper) is the newest version of the F-16 fighter jet. It is a versatile fighter jet with an advanced Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and high-resolution display, and can integrate well with newer, more advanced jets.

38. F-35 Lightning II

• Year introduced: 2016
• Type: Advanced multi-role strike fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,199 mph
• Country of origin: United States
• Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin / Northrop Grumman / BAE Systems
• Production run: 785

F-35 Lightning II (continued)

The F-35 Lightning II is a single-pilot, single-engine marvel with supersonic speed and virtually undetectable stealth technology. It includes three distinct variants: the traditional runway-reliant F-35A, the versatile short take-off and vertical landing F-35B, and the carrier-based F-35C.

37. HAL Tejas LCA

• Year introduced: 2015
• Type: Lightweight multirole fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,227 mph
• Country of origin: India
• Manufacturer: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
• Production run: 33

HAL Tejas LCA (continued)

The Indian-designed and manufactured HAL Tejas, meaning “Radiance”, is a lightweight, single-engine, delta-wing multirole combat aircraft. It is the smallest and lightest supersonic combat jet in its class.

36. Sukhoi Su-35 (Flanker-E / Super Flanker)

• Year introduced: 2014
• Type: Multi-role heavy combat fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,491 mph
• Country of origin: Russia
• Manufacturer: Sukhoi OKB
• Production run: 130

Sukhoi Su-35 (Flanker-E / Super Flanker) (continued)

The Sukhoi Su-35 is a highly advanced evolution of the Su-27. This single-seat, twin-engine multirole fighter has incredible maneuverability and thrust-vector engines, a powerful radar with long-range target detection and tracking, and can carry a variety of weaponry.

35. Shenyang J-15 (Flying Shark)

• Year introduced: 2013
• Type: Carrier-based multi-role fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,305 mph
• Country of origin: China
• Manufacturer: Shenyang Aircraft Corporation / Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC)
• Production run: 25

Shenyang J-15 (Flying Shark) (continued)

The Shenyang J-15 is China’s first domestically developed carrier-borne fighter. It is a twin-engine aircraft with folding wings for easier storage on carriers and includes modern advancements like AESA radar.

34. PAC JF-17 Thunder

• Year introduced: 2007
• Type: Lightweight multi-role fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,218 mph
• Country of origin: Pakistan
• Manufacturer: Pakistan Aeronautical Complex
• Production run: 132

PAC JF-17 Thunder (continued)

The PAC JF-17 Thunder was designed as a cost-effective, lightweight fighter. It is a versatile single-engine, multirole combat aircraft with modern avionics and the capacity to carry various weapons.

33. F-22 Raptor

• Year introduced: 2005
• Type: Air dominance fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,599 mph
• Country of origin: United States
• Manufacturer: Boeing / Lockheed Martin
• Production run: 195

F-22 Raptor (continued)

The F-22 Raptor is a single-seat, twin-engine fighter aircraft. It is a fifth-generation stealth tactical fighter with supercruise, advanced stealth capabilities, and exceptional maneuverability. It is very difficult to detect by radar.

32. Chengdu J-10 (Vicious Dragon)

• Year introduced: 2005
• Type: Fighter-bomber aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,452 mph
• Country of origin: China
• Manufacturer: Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporation (CAIC) / Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC)
• Production run: 350

Chengdu J-10 (Vicious Dragon) (continued)

The Chengdu J-10 is a single-engine fighter jet designed with a delta-wing and canard structure for better maneuverability. Enhanced with modern technology, it is a vital tool in China’s air force with pulse-Doppler radar and advanced electronic warfare systems.

31. Eurofighter Typhoon (EF2000)

• Year introduced: 2003
• Type: Fighter-bomber aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,550 mph
• Country of origin: Germany
• Manufacturer: BAE Systems / Eurofighter GmbH
• Production run: 570

Eurofighter Typhoon (EF2000) (continued)

The Eurofighter Typhoon is the result of a collaboration between the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, and Spain. It is a canard-delta wing, twin-engine multirole fighter aircraft with incredible agility at supersonic speeds.

30. Dassault Rafale

• Year introduced: 2001
• Type: Fighter-bomber aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,383 mph
• Country of origin: France
• Manufacturer: Dassault Aviation
• Production run: 201

Dassault Rafale (continued)

The Dassault Rafale is a highly versatile, delta-wing multirole fighter aircraft. It features advancements like AESA radar and can take on a variety of missions from reconnaissance and ground attacks to nuclear deterrence. It is also built to carry both French and NATO armaments.

29. Mitsubishi F-2

• Year introduced: 2000
• Type: Multi-role fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,553 mph
• Country of origin: Japan
• Manufacturer: Mitsubishi / Lockheed Martin
• Production run: 98

Mitsubishi F-2 (continued)

The Mitsubishi F-2 results from a collaboration between American and Japanese companies, tailored specifically for Japanese defense. It is a multi-role fighter jet that evolved from the American F-16 Fighting Falcon. It utilizes locally developed AESA radar and larger wings for maneuverability.

28. F/A-18 Super Hornet

• Year introduced: 1999
• Type: Carrier-based strike fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,187 mph
• Country of origin: United States
• Manufacturer: McDonnell Douglas / Boeing
• Production run: 615

The F/A-18 Super Hornet is a strike fighter with a built-in Gatling gun and the capacity to carry a variety of missiles, bombs, and extra fuel tanks. It can also refuel other planes in the air. It is utilized by the United States military as well as the militaries of Australia and Kuwait.

27. Shenyang J-11 (Flanker B+)

• Year introduced: 1998
• Type: Multi-role air superiority fighter
• Maximum speed: 1,553 mph
• Country of origin: China
• Manufacturer: Shenyang Aircraft Corporation / Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC)
• Production run: 255

Shenyang J-11 (Flanker B+) (continued)

Derived from the Russian Sukhoi Su-27, the Shenyang J-11 is a twin-engine fighter jet with advanced Chinese avionics, radar, and weaponry. It is an air superiority fighter in the People’s Liberation Army Air Force.

26. JAS 39 Gripen (Griffin)

• Year introduced: 1997
• Type: Lightweight multi-role fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,370 mph
• Country of origin: Sweden
• Manufacturer: Saab AB
• Production run: 247

JAS 39 Gripen (Griffin) (continued)

Developed by Sweden, the Saab JAS 39 Gripen was designed for operational flexibility and cost-effectiveness. It utilizes an advanced data fusion system that produces a clear picture for the pilot from its various sensors. It can be used for reconnaissance, ground attack, and air defense.

25. Sukhoi Su-30 (Flanker-C)

• Year introduced: 1996
• Type: Twin-engine air superiority strike fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,317 mph
• Country of origin: Russia
• Manufacturer: Sukhoi Design Bureau
• Production run: 635

Sukhoi Su-30 (Flanker-C) (continued)

An evolution of the Su-27, the Sukhoi Su-30 is a two-seat multirole fighter jet built for effective task sharing between two pilots. Its range and payload are greater than the Su-27, and it utilizes advanced radar and a range of weaponry.

24. Sukhoi Su-33 (Flanker-D)

• Year introduced: 1994
• Type: Carrier-based air defense fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,553 mph
• Country of origin: Russia
• Manufacturer: Sukhoi OKB
• Production run: 35

Sukhoi Su-33 (Flanker-D) (continued)

The Sukhoi Su-33 is a carrier-based fighter jet designed for naval operations. It features improved landing gear, an arrestor hook, and folding wings and tailplanes. It has multi-role capabilities but is mainly an air superiority fighter.

23. F-CK-1 (Ching-Kuo)

• Year introduced: 1994
• Type: Lightweight multirole fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,379 mph
• Country of origin: Taiwan
• Manufacturer: Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation
• Production run: 131

F-CK-1 (Ching-Kuo) (continued)

The F-CK-1 (Ching-Kuo) is a twin-engine, multirole combat aircraft with a similar design to the F-16. However, the F-CK-1 has two engines and locally developed radar. It can carry indigenous “Sky Sword” air-to-air missiles in addition to anti-ship and air-to-ground ordinance.

22. Xian JH-7 (Flounder) / FBC-1 (Flying Leopard)

• Year introduced: 1992
• Type: Fighter-bomber aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,118 mph
• Country of origin: China
• Manufacturer: Xian Aircraft Industry Corporation
• Production run: 240

Xian JH-7 (Flounder) / FBC-1 (Flying Leopard) (continued)

The Xian JH-7 (or FBC-1 for export) is a two-seat fighter-bomber built mainly for maritime strikes. It features a large payload capacity and long range and can carry both anti-ship and air-to-ground ordnance.

21. KAI KF-16 Fighting Falcon

• Year introduced: 1991
• Type: Multi-role fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 870 mph
• Country of origin: South Korea
• Manufacturer: Korean Aerospace Industries
• Production run: 140

KAI KF-16 Fighting Falcon (continued)

The KAI KF-16 Fighting Falcon is a South Korean-built adaptation of the American F-16C/D Block 50/52. In addition to the features of an F-16C, its specific radar systems, avionics, and weaponry is tailored to South Korea’s defensive needs.

20. Panavia Tornado ECR

• Year introduced: 1990
• Type: Suppression of Enemy Air Defense (SEAD) Aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,491 mph
• Country of origin: Germany
• Manufacturer: Panavia Aircraft GmbH / British Aviation Systems / MBB
• Production run: 52

Panavia Tornado ECR (continued)

A variant of the Tornado multirole combat aircraft, the Panavia Tornado ECR is specifically tailored for destroying enemy air defenses. Its focus is aimed at “Wild Weasel” missions, and its advanced systems allow it to clear the way for other aircraft.

19. F-15E Strike Eagle

• Year introduced: 1988
• Type: Strike fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,653 mph
• Country of origin: United States
• Manufacturer: McDonnell Douglas / Boeing
• Production run: 420

F-15E Strike Eagle (continued)

A variant of the F-15 Eagle, the F-15E Strike Eagle is specifically tailored for attack missions in addition to its powerful air-to-air capabilities. It is a versatile long-range strike fighter with conformal fuel tanks for increased range and advanced radar for all-weather operation.

18. Sukhoi Su-27 (Flanker)

• Year introduced: 1985
• Type: Multi-role air superiority fighter
• Maximum speed: 1,553 mph
• Country of origin: Soviet Union
• Manufacturer: Sukhoi OKB / United Aircraft Corporation
• Production run: 809

Sukhoi Su-27 (Flanker) (continued)

The Sukhoi Su-27 is a twin-engine air superiority fighter with impressive speed, agility, and range. Although initially made for the Soviet Union, this fighter jet and its many derivatives are now used in militaries across the globe.

17. AV-8B Harrier II

• Year introduced: 1985
• Type: Short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) strike aircraft
• Maximum speed: 665 mph
• Country of origin: United States
• Manufacturer: McDonnell Douglas / Boeing / BAE Systems
• Production run: 500

AV-8B Harrier II (continued)

The AV-8B Harrier II is a ground-attack aircraft with vertical/short takeoff and landing, allowing it to operate just about anywhere. It is used by the U.S. Marine Corps for light attack, reconnaissance, and close air support.

16. MiG-29 (Fulcrum)

• Year introduced: 1984
• Type: Lightweight multi-role fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,519 mph
• Country of origin: Soviet Union
• Manufacturer: Mikoyan OKB / United Aircraft Corporation
• Production run: 1,625

MiG-29 (Fulcrum) (continued)

Developed by the Soviet Union, the MiG-29 is impressively powerful in close-quarters combat with its excellent maneuverability.  Many variants also include air-to-ground weaponry and advanced avionics. Today, the MiG-29 is used in multiple roles across many countries and military forces.

15. F/A-18 Hornet

• Year introduced: 1983
• Type: Carrier-based strike fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,190 mph
• Country of origin: United States
• Manufacturer: McDonnell Douglas / Boeing / Northrop
• Production run: 1,480

Decades later, the F/A-18 Hornet is still a foundational aircraft in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Reliable and adaptable, this twin-engine, carrier-based fighter jet can quickly switch between air-to-air combat and ground attack missions with a wide variety of weaponry.

14. Shenyang J-8 / J-8 II (Finback)

• Year introduced: 1980
• Type: Fighter-bomber aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,453 mph
• Country of origin: China
• Manufacturer: Aviation Industry Corporation of China
• Production run: 325

Shenyang J-8 / J-8 II (Finback) (continued)

The Shenyang J-8 is a high-speed interceptor aircraft. Its J-8 II variants transitioned from the original’s distinctive nose intake to side intakes. These variants include more powerful radar and can carry advanced air-to-air missiles.

13. Mig-31 (Foxhound)

• Year introduced: 1979
• Type: Supersonic interceptor aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,864 mph
• Country of origin: Soviet Union
• Manufacturer: Mikoyan OKB / United Aircraft Corporation
• Production run: 500

Mig-31 (Foxhound) (continued)

The Mikoyan MiG-31 is a supersonic interceptor aircraft. Built for speed, this twin-engine, two-seat jet features a powerful, long-range radar. It can soar at a top speed of 1,900 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest operational aircraft on Earth.

12. Panavia Tornado IDS

• Year introduced: 1979
• Type: Low-level strike aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,491 mph
• Country of origin: United Kingdom
• Manufacturer: Panavia Aircraft GmbH / British Aviation Systems
• Production run: 400

Panavia Tornado IDS (continued)

The Panavia Tornado IDS was a cooperative development by the United Kingdom, Italy, and Germany. It is a twin-engine jet designed to function in all weather conditions. It is a primary ground-attack jet with the ability to carry large payloads.

11. Mirage 2000 (M2000)

• Year introduced: 1979
• Type: Strike fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,453 mph
• Country of origin: France
• Manufacturer: Dassault Aviation
• Production run: 611

Mirage 2000 (M2000) (continued)

The Mirage 2000 is a single-engine, multirole fighter with incredible agility and the ability to exceed Mach 2. It is versatile in both strike and interception roles with impressive radar and a fly-by-wire flight control system.

10. F-16 Fighting Falcon

• Year introduced: 1978
• Type: Lightweight multi-role fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,317 mph
• Country of origin: United States
• Manufacturer: General Dynamics / Lockheed Martin
• Production run: 4,604

F-16 Fighting Falcon (continued)

The F-16 Fighting Falcon is a supersonic, versatile multirole fighter jet that has become one of the most widely used combat aircraft on Earth. Even decades later, many countries continue to use the F-16 due to its cost-effectiveness and adaptability.

9. F-15 Eagle

• Year introduced: 1976
• Type: Air superiority fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,875 mph
• Country of origin: United States
• Manufacturer: McDonnell Douglas / Boeing
• Production run: 1,500

F-15 Eagle (continued)

Today, the F-15 Eagle is a legend among fighter jets. It is a twin-engine, all-weather air superiority fighter with advanced radar and an impressive thrust-to-weight ratio. The F-15 has inspired countless variants and continues to serve as a foundation for fighter design today.

8. IAI Kfir (Lion Cub)

• Year introduced: 1976
• Type: Multi-role combat aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,516 mph
• Country of origin: Israel
• Manufacturer: Israel Aircraft Industries
• Production run: 230

IAI Kfir (Lion Cub) (continued)

The IAI Kfir (which means “Lion Cub” in Hebrew) is a multirole combat aircraft. It is a unique adaptation of existing technology and impressive innovation, adapting and combining various resources to produce a powerful and versatile fighter.

7. Grumman F-14 Tomcat

• Year introduced: 1974
• Type: Swing-wing, carrier-based fleet defense fighter
• Maximum speed: 1,544 mph
• Country of origin: United States
• Manufacturer: Grumman Aircraft
• Production run: 712

Grumman F-14 Tomcat (continued)

For over three decades, the Grumman F-14 Tomcat has continued to serve the U.S. Navy. This twin-engine, two-seat supersonic fighter jet is well-known for its powerful radar and defense of naval battle groups. An iconic American symbol, the Grumman F-14 Tomcat starred in the movies Top Gun (1986) and Top Gun: Maverick (2022).

6. Mirage F1

• Year introduced: 1973
• Type: Interceptor aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,453 mph
• Country of origin: France
• Manufacturer: Dassault Aviation
• Production run: 750

Mirage F1 (continued)

The Mirage F1 is a single-engine, supersonic fighter from France. It has served as a reliable and versatile combat aircraft for many air forces around the world, with excellent landing performance and maneuverability even at lower speeds.

5. MiG-23 (Flogger)

• Year introduced: 1970
• Type: Swing-wing fighter-interceptor aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,553 mph
• Country of origin: Soviet Union
• Manufacturer: Mikoyan-Gurevich
• Production run: 5,047

MiG-23 (Flogger) (continued)

The Mikoyan MiG-23 is a swing-wing fighter jet. It was designed by the Soviet Union to be a more maneuverable counterpart to the MiG-25 interceptor. While it has been retired by many militaries, several air forces continue to use the MiG-23 regularly today.

4. Sukhoi Su-17 / Su-20 / Su-22 (Fitter)

• Year introduced: 1970
• Type: Strike fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 718 mph
• Country of origin: China
• Manufacturer: Sukhoi
• Production run: 2,867

Sukhoi Su-17 / Su-20 / Su-22 (Fitter) (continued)

The Sukhoi Su-17 (Fitter) (export versions Su-20 and Su-22) was especially prominent in the Soviet era. It is a single-engine jet with variable sweep wings, allowing it to pivot backward. Simple, robust, and effective, it became an important aircraft for many decades and continues in limited service today in many national air forces.

3. Mirage III

• Year introduced: 1961
• Type: Interceptor aircraft / Strike fighter
• Maximum speed: 1,312 mph
• Country of origin: France
• Manufacturer: Dassault Aviation
• Production run: 1,422

Mirage III (continued)

The Mirage III was one of the first multirole combat aircraft that could exceed Mach 2. It is a single-engine, delta-wing fighter jet that can carry a variety of weapons and reconnaissance pods. The Mirage III served as a foundational design for many multi-role fighter jets. It is still utilized by the Pakistan Air Force today.

2. F-4 Phantom II

• Year introduced: 1960
• Type: Carrier-based strike fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,473 mph
• Country of origin: United States
• Manufacturer: McDonnell Douglas
• Production run: 5,195

F-4 Phantom II (continued)

The F-4 Phantom is a tandem two-seat, twin-engine aircraft that is all-weather. It serves as a fighter-bomber and long-range supersonic jet interceptor. For decades, it has served as a crucial aircraft for the U.S. military and many other countries. Although limited, the F-4 Phantom is still utilized by a few air forces today.

1. MiG-21 (Fishbed)

• Year introduced: 1959
• Type: Single-seat supersonic fighter aircraft
• Maximum speed: 1,386 mph
• Country of origin: Soviet Union
• Manufacturer: Mikoyan-Gurevich
• Production run: 11,496

MiG-21 (Fishbed) (continued)

The MiG-21 (Fishbed) is a Soviet-era supersonic jet. It was lightweight and agile, known for its simplicity and impressive speed. It became one of the most famous and most-produced combat aircraft in history. Over 65 years later, the MiG-21 is still in operation with many air forces around the world.

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