Determining the Top 10 Fighter Aircraft In The World is a complex challenge. Each jet is engineered with specific roles and missions in mind, often prioritizing excellence in one area at the potential expense of another. Yet, the performance capabilities of these leading aircraft within their designated areas are truly remarkable. Drawing on an analysis of the current fleet of operational fighter jets globally, we present a compiled list of 10 of the very best.
To be considered for this ranking of the best fighter jets for 2025, aircraft must be currently operational and in active service. Experimental models, prototypes, and aircraft still under development have been excluded from this list. The criteria used for evaluation encompass a range of factors, highlighting the multifaceted nature of modern aerial combat superiority.
The 10 Best Fighter Aircraft in 2025
Leading the list for 2025 as assessed for its overall capabilities is Russia’s flagship aircraft, the Sukhoi Su-57 Felon. It achieved high scores for its agility and stealth characteristics. Notably, with an estimated cost of around $50 million per unit, it stands out as one of the more cost-effective advanced fighter jets available for air forces to acquire.
Following closely in second place is the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II. While it may not possess the extreme agility of the Su-57 or the sheer armament capacity of the F-15EX, its comprehensive all-around performance and genuine multirole capabilities position it ahead of many competitors. Its stealth features are exceptional, surpassed only by the more expensive F-22 Raptor.
In third place sits China’s initial domestically developed 5th-generation fighter jet, the Chengdu J-20 ‘Mighty Dragon’. As one of only four operational stealth fighters globally today, the J-20 scores particularly high due to its substantial 24,000 lb weapons payload, a significant portion of which is carried internally, contributing to its impressive stealth profile.
Chinese Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon stealth fighter jet in flight
Explore the remaining aircraft in our ranking of the top 10 best fighter aircraft in the world in the table below, followed by a detailed look at each one’s strengths and characteristics. Understanding the difference between fighter aircraft and attack aircraft is key to appreciating the specialized roles these jets fulfill.
The Top 10 Fighter Aircraft: A Complete List
| Aircraft | Key Strengths |
|---|---|
| Sukhoi Su-57 Felon | Exceptional agility and stealth for its cost. |
| Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II | Outstanding multirole capability and stealth. |
| Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon | Stealthy, long-range, heavy internal armament. |
| Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor | Unmatched stealth and agility, though costly. |
| Boeing F-15EX Eagle II | Heaviest weapons payload and extreme speed. |
| General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon | Most widely used, continuously upgraded, cost-effective. |
| Sukhoi Su-35 | Highly agile, formidable dogfighter. |
| Eurofighter Typhoon | Capable multirole aircraft with continuous upgrades. |
| Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet | Robust, versatile, carrier-capable workhorse. |
| Dassault Rafale | ‘Omnirole’ capability, advanced avionics, agile. |
Note on Scoring Methodology
To comprehensively assess the overall capabilities of these fighter jets, a scoring system was employed across various categories. These included cost-effectiveness, stealth characteristics, agility, weapons payload capacity, maximum speed, and the extent of their global deployment (popularity).
Points were assigned based on the aircraft’s position within a top 10 ranking for each specific characteristic. For most categories, the aircraft ranked number one received 10 points, with points decreasing down to one point for the jet ranked tenth. Aircraft falling outside the top 10 for a specific trait received no points for that characteristic.
In evaluating cost, the ranking was inverted: the least expensive aircraft earned the most points, reflecting better cost-effectiveness. For stealth, the aircraft with the lowest radar cross-section (RCS) received the highest score.
1. Sukhoi Su-57 Felon
| Su-57 Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $50 million | 10 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 1.20 | 9 |
| Stealth | RCS 0.1 | 7 |
| Weapons | 22,000 lbs payload | 8 |
| Speed | Mach 2 | 1 |
| Popularity | 22 in service | 0 |
| Total | 35 |
Positioning the Sukhoi Su-57 as the top fighter jet globally is a choice that may spark debate, particularly given the highly advanced fighters fielded by countries like the USA, notably the F-22. However, with the Su-57, Russia has developed a genuinely formidable aircraft that performs exceptionally well across agility, weapons payload, and stealth parameters. Crucially, this advanced technology has been integrated into an aircraft with a significantly lower cost compared to other cutting-edge fighters. Estimates suggest a unit cost between $35 million and $50 million.
Sukhoi Su-57 Felon fighter jet in flight, ranked highly
The Su-57 achieves its remarkable supermaneuverability through 3D thrust vectoring nozzles and an excellent thrust-to-weight ratio, enabling incredibly tight turns. While its stealth capabilities might be considered less refined than some Western counterparts, it compensates with sophisticated sensors, superior aerodynamic performance, and the flexibility of carrying both internal and external weaponry.
Close-up of the Sukhoi Su-57 Felon executing a sharp turn
2. Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II
| F-35 Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $109 million | 5 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 1.07 | 5 |
| Stealth | RCS (m2) 0.0015 | 9 |
| Weapons | 18,000 lbs payload | 5 |
| Speed | Mach 1.6 | 0 |
| Popularity | 712+ in active service | 4 |
| Total | 28 |
Although the F-35 did not claim the top spot from its Russian competitor, its prevalence and widespread adoption are significant. With over 700 units currently in active service, the F-35 forms a critical component of the US Air Force and numerous allied nations’ air power.
The F-35 boasts superior stealth characteristics compared to the Su-57, offering comprehensive stealth from all angles with a radar cross-section roughly equivalent to that of a golf ball. However, it is not as fast as the Su-57 and is unable to achieve true supercruise (sustained supersonic flight without afterburners).
Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II multirole fighter jet on a runway at sunset
The F-35 lost points in the scoring due to its higher cost, with some variants priced at approximately twice that of the reported cost for the Su-57. Nevertheless, as a genuinely multirole fighter jet capable of excelling in virtually any operational scenario, the F-35 continues to be recognized as one of the premier fighter aircraft in the world today.
3. Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon
| J-20 Mighty Dragon | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $110 million | 4 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 1.00 | 4 |
| Stealth | RCS 0.05 | 8 |
| Weapons | 24,000 lbs payload | 9 |
| Speed | Mach 2 | 1 |
| Popularity | 195+ in service | 0 |
| Total | 26 |
Entering the list strongly is the Chengdu J-20, known as the ‘Mighty Dragon’. It represents China’s first foray into 5th-generation stealth fighter technology and is one of only a few operational stealth fighter jets currently flying worldwide. While undeniably influenced by the capabilities of the F-22 and F-35, the J-20 has developed into a highly capable fighter jet in its own right.Chinese Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon stealth fighter jet in flight
The design of the J-20 emphasizes long-range operations. While not the fastest jet on this list, it can achieve speeds up to Mach 2 and maintain these speeds without relying on afterburners, granting it true supercruise ability.
Although only around two hundred units are estimated to be operational at present, it is reported to be in production at a rate significantly higher than any other twin-engine fighter, potentially reaching 100-120 aircraft per year. These aircraft are designated solely for the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and are not available for export, making it a critical component of China’s modern air power.
4. Boeing F-15EX Eagle II
| Boeing F-15EX Eagle II | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $97 million | 6 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 0.93 | 0 |
| Stealth | Not stealth | 0 |
| Weapons | 29,500 lbs payload | 10 |
| Speed | Mach 2.5 | 8 |
| Popularity | 8 in service | 0 |
| Total | 24 |
When it comes to sheer weapons carrying capacity, the F-15EX Eagle II is unmatched. This aircraft can carry nearly 30,000 lbs of ordnance, effectively functioning as a flying arsenal and ranking as the most heavily armed fighter jet in the world.
Stealth is not a primary feature of the F-15EX, nor is it intended to be. Instead of relying on covert infiltration, its maximum speed of Mach 2.5 allows it to rapidly enter a combat zone, deliver its payload, and exit. It is capable of carrying over 20 air-to-air missiles on a single mission using its Advanced Missile and Bomb Ejector Rack (AMBER) system. This makes it an ideal complementary aircraft for more expensive, stealth-focused jets, providing significant firepower.
Boeing F-15EX Eagle II, a heavily armed fighter jet, in flight
The F-15EX is currently the fastest operational fighter jet within the US Air Force fleet, with its speed exceeded globally only by the older MiG-25 and MiG-31. As of mid-2024, only eight units have been delivered, with more planned to join the USAF in the coming years, solidifying its role as a key component for rapid, high-payload missions.
5. Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor
| F-22 Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $143 million | 1 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 1.26 | 10 |
| Stealth | RCS 0.0001 | 10 |
| Weapons | 12,000 lbs payload | 0 |
| Speed | Mach 2.25 | 2 |
| Popularity | 178 in service | 0 |
| Total | 23 |
Some observers might express surprise at the F-22 Raptor’s placement lower on this list. However, its ranking reflects specific factors within the scoring methodology. This incredible engineering achievement is renowned as the most agile and stealthiest fighter jet in the world, possessing a radar cross-section comparable to that of a marble.
Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor, a highly agile and stealthy fighter jet
Despite its ability to evade detection with unparalleled stealth, the F-22 has a relatively limited weapons payload, which impacted its score. It is also the most expensive fighter jet in the world, with a unit cost exceeding $140 million, and reports suggesting the actual cost to build each jet is closer to $300 million.
Nevertheless, the F-22 remains a masterpiece of modern aeronautical design. Beyond its advanced stealth capabilities, it can supercruise at Mach 1.8 and reach a top speed of Mach 2.25, allowing for rapid engagement or disengagement from combat. Production for the F-22 has concluded, with a total of 178 aircraft built. Despite this limited number, it continues to be a formidable presence in the skies in 2025.
6. General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon
| F-16 Fighting Falcon Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $80 million | 10 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 0.75 | 0 |
| Stealth | Not stealth | 0 |
| Weapons | 15,000 lbs payload | 0 |
| Speed | Mach 2 | 1 |
| Popularity | 2,084+ in active service | 10 |
| Total | 21 |
The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon holds the distinction of being by far the most widely used fighter jet in the world today. As of 2025, over 2,000 units are in operation globally, with large fleets serving in the US Air Force and numerous other countries, including Egypt, Israel, Greece, and Turkey.
While the F-16, often referred to as the ‘Viper’, traces its origins back to the 1970s, continuous upgrades have ensured its ongoing relevance. It is a true multirole aircraft, equally adept at air-to-air combat, ground attack missions, and reconnaissance. Its versatility extends to supporting nearly every weapon system within the US and NATO inventories.
General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon, the world’s most widely used fighter jet, in flight
The latest iterations, such as the F-16 Block 70/72, represent a 4th generation++ standard, incorporating advanced features like new radars, updated mission computers, infrared tracking systems, and other significant enhancements. It is the most cost-effective aircraft on this list to acquire and has a proven combat history across various conflicts, from Operation Desert Storm to its current deployment in Ukraine.
7. Sukhoi Su-35
| Su-35 Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $85 million | 7 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 1.15 | 8 |
| Stealth | Not stealth | 0 |
| Weapons | 17,632 lbs payload | 2 |
| Speed | Mach 2.25 | 2 |
| Popularity | 118+ in service | 0 |
| Total | 19 |
While not classified as a stealth aircraft, the Sukhoi Su-35 remains one of the most formidable 4th-generation fighters globally. Its exceptional agility is facilitated by two-plane thrust vectoring, a technology uniquely integrated into this production aircraft.
In close-quarters dogfighting scenarios, the Su-35 poses a significant threat, capable of out-turning the majority of Western-designed jets. This agility, combined with a substantial internal fuel capacity, extended combat range, and a powerful passive electronically scanned array (PESA) radar, makes it well-suited for both air superiority missions and long-duration patrols.
Sukhoi Su-35 flanker-E executing a steep turn
The Su-35 can carry a generous weapons load exceeding 17,000 lbs. This, alongside its advanced electronic warfare systems, infrared search and track (IRST) sensor, and high speed of Mach 2.25, ensures it is a credible asset in both defensive and offensive operations. With over 100 units currently in service and exports to countries including China and Egypt, the Su-35 stands as a key pillar of Russia’s tactical airpower in 2025.
8. Eurofighter Typhoon
| Eurofighter Typhoon Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $117 million | 3 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 1.15 | 6 |
| Stealth | Not stealth | 0 |
| Weapons | 20,000 lbs payload | 6 |
| Speed | Mach 2 | 1 |
| Popularity | 533 in service | 3 |
| Total | 19 |
The Eurofighter Typhoon, a vital component of European air defense capabilities, was initially conceived primarily for air superiority roles but has successfully evolved into a capable multirole fighter. While it may not hold the top position in any single performance category, its strength lies in its balanced competence across various missions, rather than sacrificing one trait for another.
Eurofighter Typhoon, a European multirole fighter aircraft, in flight
Designed and manufactured towards the end of the 20th century, the Typhoon has undergone systematic upgrades over the years. The most recent Tranche 5 enhancements include a redesigned cockpit with large area displays, improved connectivity, and the capability to operate in coordination with drones.
Across its operational envelope, the Typhoon demonstrates excellent agility. Its advanced avionics suite and sensor fusion contribute significantly to its survivability in complex environments. The aircraft is capable of supercruising at speeds of Mach 1.5 while carrying a full payload, highlighting its efficient high-speed performance.
9. Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet
| F/A-18E/F Super Hornet Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $73 million | 9 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 0.85 | 0 |
| Stealth | Not stealth | 0 |
| Weapons | 17,750 lbs payload | 3 |
| Speed | Mach 1.8 | 0 |
| Popularity | 827+ in service | 6 |
| Total | 18 |
Serving as the backbone of the US Navy’s carrier air wings, the F/A-18 Hornet has been in service in various configurations since 1978. Its most recent iteration, the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, is a significantly updated version designed for 21st-century operations. It offers extended range, increased payload capacity, and requires fewer maintenance hours compared to the original Hornet models.
Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet naval fighter jet performing a tight turn
With a unit cost averaging around $73 million, it remains one of the more expensive fighter jets globally, though it is approximately half the cost of an F-22. Its ordnance payload of 17,750 lbs is substantial, and the aircraft is designed to be fully compatible with a vast array of US and NATO standard munitions.
While the Super Hornet visually resembles a larger version of the F/A-18C/D, it is fundamentally a new aircraft, with roughly 80% of its structure redesigned. The E designation refers to the single-seat variant, and the F to the twin-seat version. Both models feature folding wings, making them specifically optimized for operations from aircraft carriers.
10. Dassault Rafale
| Dassault Rafale Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $125 million | 2 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 1.10 | 7 |
| Stealth | Not stealth | 0 |
| Weapons | 20,900 lbs payload | 7 |
| Speed | Mach 1.8 | 0 |
| Popularity | 299+ in service | 0 |
| Total | 16 |
Dassault’s flagship fighter aircraft, the Rafale (meaning ‘gust of wind’ in French), is often praised for its elegant aerodynamic design. However, its capabilities extend far beyond aesthetics, making it a highly effective combat aircraft.
Dassault Rafale omnirole fighter jet flying above the clouds
The Rafale is designed for ‘omnirole’ operations, a concept that goes beyond typical multirole by allowing the jet to perform different types of missions simultaneously, rather than requiring the pilot to switch between modes. It features sophisticated avionics and sensor fusion technology, alongside one of the world’s most advanced electronic warfare systems, SPECTRA. While not considered a fully stealth aircraft like the F-22, it incorporates stealth design elements to minimize its radar cross-section. The latest F-4 standard includes radar and sensor upgrades enhancing its ability to detect stealth aircraft at long ranges, positioning it as a capable hunter of low-observable threats. For a broader perspective on regional airpower, exploring resources on pak fighter aircraft provides context on diverse operational fleets.
What’s Coming Next in the World of Fighter Aircraft?
While the global operational fleet currently includes only a limited number of true 5th-generation fighter jets, several promising new aircraft are expected to join the ranks of the best fighter aircraft in the coming years.
Significant progress is being made on the KAI KF-21 Boramae, South Korea’s inaugural domestically produced advanced fighter jet. Six prototypes have been developed, and the initial production model has reached the final assembly stage. Early performance indicators suggest a top speed around Mach 1.8 and a weapons payload capacity of up to 17,000 lbs.
South Korea’s KAI KF-21 Boramae prototype fighter jet in flight
The KF-21 is described as a 4.5-generation aircraft, meaning it’s not quite as advanced as current 5th-generation jets but boasts improved stealth features and more sophisticated avionics compared to aircraft like the Typhoon or Rafale. Its entry into service is anticipated for 2026. For information on regional developments, a list of indian fighter aircrafts provides insight into another country advancing its domestic capabilities.
Turkey is also actively developing its TAI TF Kaan, though only one prototype exists at present. India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program is somewhat further behind, with no prototype having been constructed yet.
In Russia, the Su-75 Checkmate light fighter jet was showcased at MAKS in 2021 and the Dubai Airshow in 2023. However, the project’s development has faced delays, particularly following international sanctions imposed on the country. Although an initial service entry date was projected for 2027, current progress on the Su-75 is less clear.
Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate light fighter jet prototype
Following closely behind these 5th-generation developments is the emergence of a new class of super-advanced aircraft intended to form the 6th-generation fleet. While no 6th-generation prototypes have been built yet, several manufacturers are targeting introduction in the early 2030s. Their arrival is certain to dramatically reshape the landscape of the Top 10 Fighter Aircraft In The World.
