Summary
- Sukhoi’s Su-35 features potent radar capabilities and carries a diverse range of munitions for air-to-air and ground missions.
- The Eurofighter Typhoon is equipped with sophisticated avionics, sensors, and weaponry, including electronic jamming capabilities.
- Lockheed Martin’s F-35 Lightning II stands out with superior sensor integration, an advanced helmet display, and versatile weapons systems for both air-to-air and air-to-ground roles.
Combat aircraft are engineered for exceptional performance, particularly during active missions. These warplanes are designed to execute precise strikes on airborne or ground targets while ensuring their own survival against enemy threats. The most advanced fighter aircraft showcase a powerful combination of speed, stealth capabilities, and cutting-edge technology.
This analysis compiles a list of combat aircraft widely regarded as highly advanced in their mission capabilities, drawing insights from sources including Airforce-technology.com, The War Zone (April 19th, 2021), and ThinkDefence.co.uk. For those interested in a broader perspective, a modern fighter aircraft comparison can provide additional context.
1 Sukhoi Su-35
Air Superiority Fighter
| Characteristics | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Maximum Speed | Mach 2.25 (1,300 knots, 2,400 km/h) |
| Combat Range | 860 NM (1,600 km) |
| g limit | +9 |
The Sukhoi Su-35 earns its place among the most advanced fighter aircraft for multiple reasons. Notably, it is equipped with an Irbis-E passive electronically scanned radar capable of detecting targets up to 350 kilometers (217 miles) away. Complementing this is an infrared and optical scanner, designed for silently identifying airborne targets. Like the Su-27, on which the Su-35 is based, it can also feature a helmet-mounted sight. As highlighted in Russian-language documentaries translated into English, the Su-35 aircraft also possess a datalink system, a feature shared by all five fighters discussed in this list.
The Su-35 incorporates thrust vectoring technology and boasts the capacity to carry an extensive array of munitions. This ranges from active radar air-to-air missiles with a 300-kilometer (190 mi) reach, optimized for air superiority missions, to anti-radiation missiles used for suppressing enemy air defenses, and numerous types of precision air-to-ground munitions.
Russian Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jet soaring through a blue sky.
Photo: US Navy
In recent conflicts, the Su-35 has been utilized to deploy anti-radiation missiles and fire GPS-guided glide bombs, alongside executing long-range air-to-air missile engagements. As illustrated in photographs, such as the US Navy image showing the aircraft near a Boeing P-8A Poseidon, the Su-35 can carry semi-active radar-homing missiles and, beneath the engine intakes, active radar missiles equipped with their own small radar for target interception.
The Su-35 is characterized by its long operational range and capability for tight maneuvering, supported by a varied payload capacity. Its advanced avionics suite further facilitates the effective deployment of these weapon systems, solidifying its status as a formidable modern combat aircraft. Discussions around the fighter aircraft cost comparison often include the Su-35 due to its widespread operational status and export potential, though specific costs can vary significantly.
2 Eurofighter Typhoon
Multirole Fighter
| Characteristics | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Maximum Speed | Mach 2.0 (1,150 knots, 2,125 km/h) |
| Combat Range | 863 NM (1,620 km) |
| g limit | +9 / -3 |
Selecting the most advanced fighter aircraft presented a challenge, particularly when comparing the Typhoon with rivals like the Dassault Rafale and the Saab Gripen E/F. However, the Typhoon distinguishes itself through greater payload capacity, extended range, and, like the Rafale, has demonstrated its capabilities in combat scenarios.
A Royal Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon taking off from an airfield.
Photo: Colin McLeod | Eurofighter
The ability to carry anti-radiation missiles gives the Typhoon a significant advantage, arguably placing it ahead in certain mission profiles, similar to the Su-35. The Eurofighter is designed to carry the SPEAR 3 multimode guidance missile, as well as the SPEAR EW variant, which is specifically engineered to jam enemy air defense radars. According to reporting by ThinkDefence.co.uk, the SPEAR missile is initially intended for integration with the F-35B (detailed below) and the Eurofighter Typhoon. These missiles can be carried externally on pylons (three per pylon) or internally within the F-35’s two internal pylons (four per pylon). Simulations of the kinetic strike version demonstrate its potential impact.
The Eurofighter is also remarkably advanced in its maneuverability. It is powered by two Eurojet EJ200 engines, each capable of generating 13,500 pounds of thrust without afterburner/reheat, and an impressive 20,200 pounds with afterburner/reheat engaged. This power enables the Eurofighter Typhoon to achieve high speeds and perform effective air intercepts and interdiction missions.
Regarding sensors, the Eurofighter was initially equipped with the Euroradar Captor, designed for rapid target scanning and acquisition. This system is currently being upgraded to the Captor-E Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar. Unlike older mechanically scanned arrays or passive electronically scanned arrays (which function as a single large transmitter/receiver), the Captor-E’s “active” designation means each antenna element has its own independent transmitter and receiver, offering enhanced performance and flexibility.
A Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jet flying high in a bright sky.
Photo: sam-whitfield1 | Shutterstock
The Eurofighter also features the Passive InfraRed Airborne Tracking Equipment (PIRATE). PIRATE is a sophisticated track-while-scan infrared search and track system that allows the Typhoon to detect and track other aircraft without emitting any detectable radar signals. Furthermore, the Eurofighter can mount an infrared pod equipped with a laser designator, enabling it to find and designate targets for precision-guided bombs. For those interested in procurement and operational status, examining fighter aircraft manufacturing countries provides insight into the international collaboration behind the Typhoon program.
3 F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet & EA-18G Growler
Multirole Combat Aircraft
| Characteristics | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Maximum Speed | Mach 1.8 (1,034 knots, 1,915 km/h) |
| Combat Range | 400 NM (740 km) |
| g limit | +9 |
Yes, the Super Hornet, famous from its appearance in “Top Gun: Maverick,” is included in this list of the most advanced fighter aircraft. However, the primary reason the Super Hornet family ranks here is a variant that didn’t get much screen time in the movie: the EA-18G Growler.
Two Boeing EA-18G Growlers in formation flight during a demonstration.
Photo: Joe Kunzler | Simple Flying
The EA-18G Growler, pictured above, is the electronic airborne attack variant. It is equipped with additional electronics, distinctive wingtip pods, and notably, lacks the nose-mounted 20mm gun of the standard Super Hornet. Its core capabilities include stand-off jamming, electronic surveillance, electronic airborne attack, and suppression of enemy air defenses. In essence, it is designed to identify and neutralize threats across the electromagnetic spectrum, encompassing everything from radars to mobile phone communications. This makes the Growler a crucial asset in modern electronic warfare.
A U.S. Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet breaking through clouds during an air show.
Photo: USAF
Both the Super Hornet and the Growler feature an impressive suite of avionics, such as the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing Sight (JHMCS). These aircraft can carry a wide variety of armaments, ranging from the AIM-9X Sidewinder and AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles to the full spectrum of US air-to-ground munitions. Uniquely among the five aircraft on this list, the Super Hornet can also serve as an aerial tanker, providing crucial refueling support. These factors contribute to the Super Hornet and Growler’s status as advanced fighter jets, a capability further enhanced by ongoing upgrades like the Block III standard. Another practical advancement is that both aircraft incorporate their own boarding ladder, a seemingly minor detail that significantly improves operational efficiency.
4 F-15EX Eagle II
Air Superiority Fighter
| Characteristics | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Maximum Speed | Mach 2.5 (1,665 knots, 2,655 km/h) |
| Combat Range | 1,061 NM (1,965 km) |
| g limit | +9 |
The F-15EX Eagle II represents the latest iteration of the iconic F-15 Eagle, an aircraft initially designed in the 1970s primarily for air superiority. The Eagle II builds upon the F-15’s proven successes in both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat by offering even greater weapons carriage capacity and significantly improved sensors.
In terms of sensors, the F-15EX Eagle II is equipped with a Raytheon AN/APG-82(V)1 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, a Lockheed Martin Legion Pod for infrared search and track (allowing silent tracking of aerial targets without radar emissions), and an IR target pod. This suite continues the F-15’s legacy of being able to autonomously search for, designate, and attack targets when necessary. For those exploring the capabilities of high-performance aircraft, researching the most powerful fighter aircraft often leads to discussions about platforms like the F-15EX due to its speed and payload.
Two U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles parked on an airfield apron.
Photo: US Air Force
According to an interview with the radar’s chief developer published in The War Zone, the AESA radar significantly reduces maintenance demands compared to older systems. Furthermore, the AN/APG-82(V)1 AESA radar is an evolution, incorporating the best air-to-ground and air-to-air features from systems like the APG-79 on the F/A-18 and the APG-63V3 on the F-15C/D. Michelle Styczynski, the head of Raytheon’s F-15 radar program, commented to The War Zone regarding the potential for teaming up with the F-35 (profiled next), stating:
“Basically, the F-15EX is being compared to an F-35, but really, from my point of view, they’re best working together and F-15EX gives them an ability to have that big searchlight out there via its powerful radar.”
Additionally, the cockpit of the F-15EX features a large, reprogrammable touchscreen display, a major advancement over the smaller multi-function displays found in the F-15E and the original F-15C cockpit. The F-15C was retrofitted in the late 2010s with a large multi-function display to integrate with the Sniper IR pod, as detailed in a May 25th, 2018 article in The War Zone. This upgrade allows a modernized F-15C performing air superiority duties to make visual confirmations of potential hostile aircraft at significant distances. This enhanced situational awareness capability is carried over and improved upon in the F-15EX, solidifying its place among the most advanced fighter aircraft in the world.
Furthermore, the F-15EX retains the full air-to-ground strike capability of the F-15E and includes the potential to carry anti-radiation missiles, alongside its formidable air-to-air capabilities. The F-15EX has already inspired variants like the F-15IA for Israel, which is equipped to carry the AGM-88B HARM anti-radiation missile.
A poster displaying the armament and payload options for the F-15IA fighter jet.
Image: Boeing
In an era demanding precision strikes with a broad weapon menu and the ability to counter enemy fighters, the F-15 platform, particularly the F-15EX variant, maintains significant relevancy and technological edge, positioning it as one of the world’s most powerful fighter aircraft.
5 F-35 A/B/C Lightning II
Stealth Multirole Combat Aircraft
| Characteristics | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Maximum Speed | Mach 1.6 (700 knots, 1,296 km/h) |
| Combat Range | 669 NM (1,239 km) |
| g limit | +9 |
The primary reason the F-35 family is frequently cited as the most advanced fighter aircraft platform is its unparalleled ability to integrate disparate sensor inputs and present crucial information on a cutting-edge helmet-mounted display. This display system can project flight and sensor data across a 40-degree horizontal and 30-degree vertical field of view. The F-35’s helmet display integrates a heads-up display, offers bi-ocular vision including night vision capabilities without requiring separate goggles, and features a visual targeting sight.
Additionally, the F-35’s helmet sight can merge imagery from six external visual sensors placed around the aircraft, providing the pilot with the unique ability to “see through” the aircraft’s structure. According to the manufacturer’s brochure, the Collins Aerospace display is custom-fitted for each pilot and includes video recording functionality. If the helmet sight and controls on the throttle and stick aren’t sufficient, the cockpit includes several touch controls and a very large touchscreen display that can be reprogrammed to show various data configurations.
A U.S. Marine Corps pilot using an F-35 flight simulator.
Photo: US Marine Corps
These advanced capabilities are precisely why aircraft like the F-22A Raptor, despite its formidable performance (including thrust vectoring, higher speed, and superior stealth compared to the F-35), do not top this list. While the F-22A is an exceptional air superiority fighter, it lacks the advanced sensor integration and extensive weapons carriage versatility of the F-35. The F-22’s internal weapons bay can accommodate payloads like AIM-120 and AIM-9 missiles, a 20mm gun, two 1,000 lb JDAMs, and eight Small Diameter Bombs. In contrast, the F-35 is designed to carry a significantly wider variety and greater quantity of weapons, both internally (to maintain stealth) and externally (when stealth is not paramount).
Furthermore, the F-35A is equipped with optical sensors specifically designed to assist in targeting and deploying these diverse weapons. Unlike the F-22A, which relies on multi-function displays from the 1990s era, the F-35A features a wide, reprogrammable touchscreen cockpit display capable of simultaneously showing flight data, sensor feeds, and even text communications, a level of integration critical for any aircraft vying to be the most advanced fighter aircraft in the world.
An AN-APG-81 radar antenna unit on display at the National Electronics Museum.
Photo: Daderot | Wikimedia Commons
Another significant advancement of the F-35 family is the Northrop Grumman AN/APG-81 AESA radar, pictured above. This radar system is capable of operating at extended ranges and features a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) mode. SAR allows the radar to create high-resolution imagery of ground areas, useful for identifying targets and generating precise GPS coordinates regardless of cloud cover or visibility conditions.
When cloud cover is not an issue, the F-35 leverages its integrated Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS), housed under a nose-mounted sapphire window. Integrating this system internally, unlike the external IR targeting pods required by previous generation aircraft, frees up hardpoints for other weapons and eliminates the need for the aircraft to activate its radar to obtain GPS coordinates for guided weapons. The EOTS is subtly visible on the underside of the F-35A’s nose section. Understanding the development and deployment of such systems is key to discussions about china 6th generation fighter aircraft and future aerial combat capabilities.
The underside view of a F-35A fighter jet in full afterburner during flight.
Photo: Joe Kunzler | Simple Flying
While possessing advanced sensors is crucial, the aircraft must also have the means to reach its target effectively. The F-35 is powered by the Pratt & Whitney F135 afterburning turbofan engine, visible in the afterburner state above. This engine provides 28,000 pounds of dry thrust and a powerful 43,000 pounds in afterburner. As detailed by Airforce-Technology.com, a variant of the F135 engine is used in the F-35B jump jet model, delivering 18,000 pounds of thrust through the rear nozzle, 20,000 pounds via the lift fan, and 3,900 pounds through two roll posts for precise control during vertical flight.
Finally, the F135 engine includes a sophisticated health management system. This system continuously monitors the engine’s condition and transmits telemetry data to maintenance crews, significantly simplifying troubleshooting and logistical support. Considering its integrated cockpit, advanced sensors, extensive weapons carrying capability, innovative engine design, and inherent stealth characteristics, the F-35 stands out as a leading contender for the title of the most advanced fighter aircraft in the world. It also features a built-in boarding ladder, a small but practical detail contributing to its operational readiness.
Conclusion
It is clear that the era where raw speed or even just stealth alone defined the superiority of fighter jets has passed. In the 2020s, being the most advanced fighter aircraft in the world is less about being the fastest or stealthiest in isolation and more about the ability to effectively engage targets, project power, and provide effects – whether kinetic (weapons), electromagnetic (jamming/sensing), or simply presence. Versatility across multiple roles and persistence during missions are now the most critical attributes. The aircraft listed here exemplify this shift towards integrated, multi-functional platforms.
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