Investing in air capabilities represents one of the most significant expenditures for any nation’s defense department. While the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter program is widely known for its staggering estimated lifetime cost of over $1.7 trillion, this figure encompasses development, procurement, and decades of sustainment. It doesn’t always translate to the highest price tag per aircraft acquisition.
In fact, when focusing on the unit cost—what nations pay to acquire a single jet—the F-35 currently ranks lower than several other advanced military aircraft. This Fighter Aircraft Cost Comparison reveals that various factors influence the sticker price, including technological sophistication, production volume, specific configurations requested, and fluctuations in raw material costs.
The cost of fighter jets is dynamic and can be influenced by external pressures. For example, recent reports in July 2024 indicated that Lockheed Martin might face challenges keeping F-35 costs down due to rising raw material prices. The most expensive variant, the F-35B designed for vertical takeoff and landing, is currently priced around $109 million per unit, a figure that has slightly decreased but could change in future production lots.
Beyond the basic flyaway cost, the final price is significantly affected by requested specifications, such as advanced weapons systems and specialized avionics. While a base F-35 model might start around $80 million, adding these features can push the price to the known high of $109 million per unit.
It’s also important to note that the actual production cost for some of the most expensive fighters can vastly exceed the sticker price. The Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor, often cited as the most expensive unit acquisition at $143 million according to the US Air Force, is estimated by some sources like Airforce Technology to have cost as much as $350 million per aircraft to produce, reflecting its cutting-edge technology and limited production run. Understanding these different cost metrics is key to a comprehensive Fighter Aircraft Cost Comparison.
For this ranking of the most expensive fighter jets by unit cost, we’ve compiled data from available public sources and reports of procurement contracts to estimate the highest price paid for each model. Bear in mind that flyaway costs for base configurations may be lower, and individual contract values are subject to confidential negotiations. Our ranking uses best estimates based on available information to provide this snapshot of fighter jet acquisition costs. A detailed fighter aircraft cost comparison highlights these significant investments made by global air forces.
Which is the most expensive fighter jet in the world by unit cost?
Based on available unit cost estimates, the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor holds the top spot as the world’s most expensive fighter jet at $143 million per unit, according to the US Air Force. However, as noted, its actual production cost per unit is considerably higher.
Following the F-22, the Dassault Rafale is evaluated as having a current new value of approximately $125 million, placing it second. The multinational Eurofighter Typhoon project, known for its complex development and rising costs, comes in third with an estimated sticker price of $117 million for export customers.
Here is a detailed ranking of the most expensive fighter jets by unit acquisition cost:
1. Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor: $143 million
Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor flying with mountains in background
| Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor key statistics | |
|---|---|
| Origin | US |
| Primary users | US |
| Manufactured | 1996 – 2011 |
| Number built | 195 |
| Maximum speed | Mach 2.25 |
| Range | 1,600 nmi |
The F-22 Raptor is widely regarded as one of the most capable fifth-generation fighter jets ever built. Primarily designed for air superiority, its advanced capabilities also include ground attack, electronic warfare, and signals intelligence.
Its stealth design results in an extremely small radar cross-section, enhancing its survivability in contested airspace. The F-22 features supercruise capability, allowing it to maintain supersonic speeds (Mach 1.8) without using afterburners, conserving fuel and increasing operational range. Combined with sophisticated avionics, exceptional maneuverability facilitated by thrust vectoring, and internal weapons bays that reduce drag and maintain stealth, the F-22 represents the pinnacle of air superiority technology.
The flyaway cost is officially listed by the US Air Force at $143 million. However, considering the entire program cost exceeding $67.3 billion for only 195 aircraft, the estimated production cost per Raptor is around $334 million, starkly illustrating the difference between development/production cost and the final sale price per unit.
Despite its unmatched performance in air-to-air combat, the F-22 was ultimately deemed too expensive for large-scale production. The program concluded in 2011, shifting focus to the F-35, which offered greater export potential and different capabilities. Nevertheless, upgrades for the existing F-22 fleet are still being pursued in response to evolving threats, highlighting its continued strategic importance. A comprehensive fighter aircraft cost comparison often reveals these significant differences between program costs and unit costs.
2. Dassault Rafale: $125 million
Dassault Rafale fighter jet flying
| Dassault Rafale key statistics | |
|---|---|
| Origin | France |
| Primary users | France, Egypt, India |
| Manufactured | 1986 – present |
| Number built | 259 |
| Maximum speed | Mach 1.8 |
| Range | 2,000 nmi |
Estimates for the unit price of the Dassault Rafale vary, ranging from $100 million to $120 million for basic configurations. Shephard Media reports an average contemporary cost of approximately $124.95 million per aircraft, based on French budget documents from 2013 that cited the twin-seat Rafale B variant at €74 million ($98.2 million at the time).
Unlike the F-22’s initial focus on air superiority, the Rafale was designed from its inception as a true multirole, or “omnirole,” fighter. This means it can effectively perform air-to-air combat, ground attack, reconnaissance, carrier operations, and even serve as a nuclear deterrent platform. Its distinctive delta wing and canard configuration provides exceptional agility. Similar to the F-22, it possesses supercruise capabilities, capable of sustained flight at Mach 1.4 without afterburners. While not as inherently stealthy as fifth-generation fighters, the Rafale utilizes the SPECTRA electronic warfare system for active fire-control jamming to disrupt enemy targeting systems and enhance survivability.
Over 250 Rafale units have been produced, with France being the primary operator. Significant export sales have been made to countries like India (36 units), Egypt (54 units), and Qatar (36 units). Notably, the UAE signed a deal for 80 Rafales, estimated to be worth $19 billion, representing one of the largest export orders for the aircraft. This demonstrates the Rafale’s success in the international market compared to less export-oriented fighters like the F-22.
3. Eurofighter Typhoon: $117 million
Eurofighter Typhoon in flight
| Eurofighter Typhoon key statistics | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Multinational |
| Primary users | UK, Germany, Italy, Spain |
| Manufactured | 1994 – present |
| Number built | 592 |
| Maximum speed | Mach 2.35 |
| Range | 1,800 nmi |
The Eurofighter Typhoon is the result of a multinational collaboration involving the UK, Germany, Italy, and Spain. It is a highly advanced 4.5-generation multirole fighter jet optimized for air-to-air combat. The Typhoon boasts one of the best thrust-to-weight ratios among modern fighters (nearly 1:1), allowing for exceptional acceleration and climb performance, and can achieve speeds exceeding Mach 2.0. It is equipped with a sophisticated suite of weapons and sensors.
Key technological features contributing to the Typhoon’s capabilities and cost include:
- Captor-E AESA Radar: Provides enhanced detection ranges, improved tracking of multiple targets, and increased resistance to electronic jamming.
- Pirate IRST (Infrared Search and Track): A passive sensor capable of detecting heat signatures from other aircraft, including stealthy ones, without emitting radar signals that could reveal the Typhoon’s position.
- DASS (Defensive Aids Sub-System): An advanced electronic warfare suite offering comprehensive protection with missile warning, radar jamming, and automated countermeasure deployment.
- Sensor Fusion: Integrates data from various sensors to provide the pilot with a unified, clear picture of the battlespace, a concept also central to fifth-generation fighters.
According to a UK National Audit Office report, the unit cost for export customers is approximately £73 million ($117 million). However, partner nations involved in the project may acquire the aircraft at lower prices, potentially around $50 million per unit. Similar to the F-22, the unit sticker price is significantly less than the estimated per-jet cost when considering the entire program’s expense, which could be as high as $120 billion, averaging out to around $250 million per aircraft built. Analyzing these figures is crucial in any thorough fighter aircraft cost comparison.
4. Chengdu J-20: $110 million
Chengdu J-20 stealth fighter jet on the ground
| Chengdu J-20 key statistics | |
|---|---|
| Origin | China |
| Primary users | China (PLAF) |
| Manufactured | 2009 – present |
| Number built | 300+ |
| Maximum speed | Mach 2.0 |
| Range | 3,000 nmi |
The Chengdu J-20, known as the “Mighty Dragon,” is China’s first domestically developed fifth-generation stealth fighter. It incorporates various design features aimed at minimizing its radar cross-section, including radar-absorbent materials, internal weapons bays, angled fuselage lines, and forward-swept canards. Janes estimates the unit price of a J-20 to be approximately $110 million.
Initial J-20 variants were powered by Russian AL-31 engines, which reportedly limited their maneuverability. Newer production J-20s feature Chinese-made WS-10C engines, granting them supercruise capability (Mach 1.8 without afterburners). Future iterations are expected to be equipped with the more powerful WS-15 engines, promising true supermaneuverability comparable to the F-22 through 3D thrust vectoring. With its exceptionally long range, the J-20 is well-suited for deep-strike missions and acts as a strategic asset, particularly in areas like the contested South China Sea.
How has China potentially achieved a unit cost significantly lower than the F-22 for an aircraft with comparable stealth and evolving capabilities? Some analysts suggest China may have benefited from espionage and technology transfers, potentially reducing research and development costs. Furthermore, the J-20 is being mass-produced at a scale the F-22 never achieved, which helps to lower the per-unit manufacturing cost. China has invested an estimated $50 billion into the J-20 program and currently operates the aircraft exclusively, with no export plans announced. Understanding the factors behind these varying costs is key to any fighter aircraft cost comparison.
5. Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II: $109 million
Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II taking off
| Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II key statistics | |
|---|---|
| Origin | US |
| Primary users | US |
| Manufactured | 2006 – present |
| Number built | 1,100+ |
| Maximum speed | Mach 1.6 |
| Range | 1,500 nmi |
The Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II is known for its program’s historical cost, often cited as the most expensive weapon system ever developed. Beyond acquisition, operational costs for this advanced fifth-generation fighter are among the highest globally, making both purchase and sustainment relatively costly. Recent reports from 2022 onwards have indicated further increases in unit costs, attributed to inflation, adjustments in production quantities, and the incorporation of enhanced capabilities.
A report by the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) in May 2023 highlighted that the increase in procurement costs was linked to “additional years of costs related to airframe and engine production, along with support costs for equipment, technical data, and training.”
The F-35 program produced three main variants—the F-35A (conventional takeoff and landing), F-35B (short takeoff/vertical landing), and F-35C (carrier-based). These variants are, in essence, distinct aircraft tailored for different operational requirements. The F-35B is generally the most complex and expensive, with its unit cost noted as being around $109 million. Despite its lower ranking in this specific fighter aircraft cost comparison by unit price, the F-35’s overall program expenditures and operational costs remain extraordinarily high.
6. Boeing F-15EX Eagle II: $97 million
Boeing F-15EX Eagle II in flight
| Boeing F-15EX Eagle II key statistics | |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Primary users | USAF |
| Manufactured | 2011 – present |
| Number built | 8 |
| Maximum speed | Mach 2.5 |
| Range | 2,100 nmi |
The Boeing F-15EX Eagle II represents the most modern and capable iteration of the venerable F-15 airframe. Designed for the US Air Force, it serves as a heavily upgraded, non-stealthy air superiority and multirole fighter. The F-15EX incorporates state-of-the-art avionics, significantly enhanced weapons carrying capacity, and modern survivability features, although it foregoes the stealth characteristics of fifth-generation jets. While initially projected to cost under $80 million per aircraft, the price increased to $90 million and then to $97 million by Fall 2023, reflecting its advanced systems and updates.
The F-15EX is the fastest fighter jet currently in production for the US, capable of speeds up to Mach 2.5. Rather than relying on stealth, its design emphasizes overwhelming firepower and speed. It possesses the highest payload capacity of any fighter jet in the USAF inventory, able to carry up to 13.6 tons of ordnance, including the capacity for up to 16 air-to-air missiles simultaneously, effectively serving as a “missile truck.” This capability is a key aspect when considering the value proposition in a fighter aircraft cost comparison.
Despite operating F-22 and F-35 fleets, the USAF still requires the F-15EX to replace aging F-15C/D models. The F-15EX is generally cheaper and easier to maintain than its stealth counterparts. Its massive payload capacity makes it an ideal complement to stealth fighters, which can penetrate contested airspace while the F-15EX provides heavy fire support. The Eagle II is expected to remain a crucial component of the US Air Force and allied fleets well into the 2050s.
7. Sukhoi Su-35 – $85 million
Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jet performing an aerial maneuver
| Sukhoi Su-35 key statistics | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Russia |
| Primary users | Russia, China |
| Manufactured | 2007 – present |
| Number built | 151 |
| Maximum speed | Mach 2.25 |
| Range | 1,900 nmi |
The Sukhoi Su-35 is Russia’s premier 4.5-generation air superiority fighter, developed as a formidable competitor to Western aircraft like the F-15EX, Eurofighter Typhoon, and Rafale. As an evolution of the Su-27 Flanker airframe, it incorporates significantly upgraded avionics, enhanced structural strength, and thrust-vectoring engines to boost its combat effectiveness.
Although it lacks the radar-evading stealth features of fifth-generation fighters like the F-22 and F-35, the Su-35 compensates with exceptional speed and raw agility. It is considered one of the most maneuverable fighters globally, thanks to the thrust-vectoring nozzles on its Saturn AL-41F1S engines. Its maneuverability is arguably rivaled only by the F-22 and the upcoming Su-57.
Based on available information and reported sales, the estimated unit cost for a Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jet is around $85 million. However, the final price can fluctuate based on specific configurations, contractual details, and prevailing exchange rates. Some sources have cited lower production costs depending on currency values, but the acquisition price typically reflects more than just the build cost. Performing a fighter aircraft cost comparison across different nations and economic contexts highlights these variations.
8. Saab JAS 39E/F Gripen: $85 million
Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter jet in flight
| Saab JAS 39E/F Gripen key statistics | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Sweden |
| Primary users | Sweden, Brazil, South Africa, Hungary |
| Manufactured | 1987 – present |
| Number built | 300+ |
| Maximum speed | Mach 2 |
| Range | 2,500 nmi |
The Saab JAS 39 Gripen E/F represents the latest generation of the Swedish multirole fighter. The ‘E’ variant is a single-seater, while the ‘F’ is a two-seat version. This updated model features significant enhancements, including an AESA radar, increased payload capacity, extended range, a sophisticated electronic warfare suite, and new engines. According to Airforce Technology, the unit price for the Saab Gripen E is currently around $85 million.
Earlier in its development, around 2012, expectations were that the new-generation JAS 39 would exceed $100 million per unit. Saab successfully managed to reduce the price in subsequent years, making the Gripen E/F a highly competitive option on the international market once again, particularly for nations seeking advanced capabilities at a more accessible price point than some higher-tier fighters. When conducting a fighter aircraft cost comparison, the Gripen stands out for its balance of cost and modern features.
Known for its ease of maintenance and high survivability, the Gripen is sometimes referred to as a “smart fighter” due to its advanced electronics and networked capabilities. It was one of the first fighters to fully integrate data-linking systems, providing exceptional real-time battlefield awareness. Its mission systems are also noted for using AI assistance to analyze threats and suggest optimal tactics to the pilot.
9: Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet: $73 million
Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet on an aircraft carrier deck
| Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet key statistics | |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Primary users | USA, Australia, Kuwait |
| Manufactured | 1995 – present |
| Number built | 630+ |
| Maximum speed | Mach 1.6 |
| Range | 1,800 nmi |
An evolution of the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet, the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet is a highly capable multirole fighter primarily operated from aircraft carriers. It is designed for both air-to-air combat and air-to-ground strike missions. The unit cost of the Super Hornet typically ranges from $67 million to $73 million, depending on the specific production block and configuration. It is available in two variants: the single-seat F/A-18E and the tandem-seat F/A-18F.
The Super Hornet entered operational service with the US Navy in 2001, eventually replacing the venerable Grumman F-14 Tomcat. Compared to the original Hornet, the Super Hornet is approximately 20% larger, carries about a third more internal fuel, and features two additional weapon pylons, resulting in significantly improved range, endurance, and payload capacity.
A specialized variant of the F/A-18F, the E/A-18G Growler, is dedicated to electronic warfare missions. Equipped with highly advanced jamming and signal intelligence systems, the Growler is the most expensive aircraft in the F-18 family, with unit costs around $80 million depending on its specific equipment configuration. While the base Super Hornet unit cost is lower than many on this list, its specialized variants and long production run make it a significant investment. A fighter aircraft cost comparison often includes both the base model and its derivatives.
10. Shenyang FC-31/J-35: $70 million
Shenyang J-35 stealth fighter prototype on display
| Shenyang FC-31/J-35 key statistics | |
|---|---|
| Origin | China |
| Primary users | China |
| Manufactured | 2021 – present |
| Number built | Flight testing |
| Maximum speed | Mach 1.8 |
| Range | 1,800 nmi |
The Shenyang FC-31, also known as the J-31 or Gyrfalcon, is China’s second domestically developed fifth-generation stealth fighter prototype. Produced by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, it is intended as a lighter, potentially more cost-effective and versatile alternative to the larger Chengdu J-20. The FC-31 is widely seen as China’s direct competitor to the US F-35 Lightning II on the export market, emphasizing stealth, maneuverability, and multirole capabilities.
The design incorporates features aimed at low observability, including angled airframe surfaces, canted twin vertical stabilizers, and an internal weapons bay designed to reduce its radar cross-section. Unlike the single-engine F-35, the J-31 is a twin-engine design, offering potentially better performance at certain flight envelopes and redundancy. The naval variant, designated J-35, is currently undergoing flight testing and is expected to serve as China’s primary carrier-based stealth fighter, competing directly with the F-35C for naval air wings. For those interested in modern fighter aircraft comparison, the emergence of aircraft like the J-35 is a significant development.
Estimates suggest that if the FC-31 enters mass production, its unit cost could range between $70 million and $85 million, positioning it competitively in the international market against non-stealth and some stealth options. Unlike the J-20, which is exclusively for China’s People’s Liberation Army Air Force, China is actively promoting the FC-31 and its derivatives for export, positioning them as cost-effective alternatives to existing stealth and advanced 4.5-generation multirole fighters. Comparing its projected cost in a fighter aircraft cost comparison makes it an intriguing potential disruptor in the global defense market. The future of stealth technology and its associated costs is a key area of discussion.
The landscape of defense spending on air power is complex, with various factors influencing the final price tag of advanced military aircraft. While program costs can run into the trillions, the unit acquisition cost provides a different perspective on the investment required per aircraft. From the cutting-edge stealth of the F-22 and J-20 to the versatile multirole capabilities of the Rafale and Typhoon, and the sheer firepower of the F-15EX, each aircraft represents a significant financial commitment. This fighter aircraft cost comparison highlights the substantial resources nations allocate to maintaining air superiority and modernizing their defense capabilities in an ever-evolving global security environment.
