It’s a complex task to definitively declare which are the best fighter aircraft in the world. These sophisticated machines are purpose-built for specific roles and missions, often excelling in one critical area while making necessary compromises in others.
Nevertheless, the capabilities demonstrated by some of the latest fighter aircraft within their designed operational envelopes are truly remarkable. Drawing upon analysis, this article reviews the performance of the current generation of fighter jets and compiles a list of 10 of the very best that are operational and in service as of 2025. Experimental aircraft, prototypes, and aircraft still under development have not been included in this ranking of the world’s most capable modern fighter aircraft.
The 10 Best Operational Fighter Jets in 2025
Topping the list of the best fighter jets in the world in 2025 is Russia’s flagship aircraft, the Sukhoi Su-57. It achieved high scores for its agility and stealth features. Furthermore, with an estimated unit cost of approximately $50 million, it stands out as one of the most cost-effective advanced fighter jets available to air forces today, a factor that significantly impacts fighter aircraft cost comparison.
The Su 57 Felon in flight, considered one of the latest fighter aircraft in the world
Securing the second position is the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II. While it may not possess the extreme agility of the Su-57 or the immense weapons carrying capacity of the F-15EX, its outstanding all-around performance and genuine multirole capabilities distinguish it from many competitors. Its stealth technology is exceptional, surpassed only by the considerably more expensive F-22, making it a benchmark in modern fighter aircraft comparison.
In third place is China’s first domestically developed 5th-generation fighter jet, and one of only four operational stealth fighters currently deployed globally. The Chengdu J-20 ‘Mighty Dragon’ is highly rated for its substantial 24,000 lb internal weapons payload, which significantly enhances its incredible stealth profile by minimizing external stores.
The Chengdu J 20 Mighty Dragon in flight, a leading stealth fighter aircraft
The subsequent sections delve deeper into each of these impressive aircraft, providing more details on their specific strengths and characteristics that place them among the elite of the latest fighter aircraft fleet.
The Best Fighter Jets: The Complete List
| Aircraft | Key Strength Among the ‘Best’ |
|---|---|
| Sukhoi Su-57 Felon | The most agile fighter jet |
| Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II | The most capable multirole aircraft |
| Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon | A stealthy, heavily armed multirole jet |
| Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor | The stealthiest and most expensive |
| Boeing F-15EX Eagle II | The most heavily armed fighter jet |
| General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon | The most widely used fighter jet |
| Sukhoi Su-35 | An incredible dogfighter |
| Eurofighter Typhoon | An agile and capable multirole aircraft |
| Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet | Effective, versatile, and tough |
| Dassault Rafale | Agile, heavily armed, and versatile |
Note on Scoring Methodology
To comprehensively evaluate the all-round capabilities of these leading fighter jets, we have assigned scores based on several key categories. These include the aircraft’s unit cost, stealth features, agility (measured by thrust-to-weight ratio), weapons payload capacity, top speed, and how widely it is used by air forces worldwide.
Points were awarded based on each aircraft’s ranking within our top 10 for each specific characteristic. For most categories, the aircraft ranked number 1 received 10 points, with points decreasing sequentially down to one point for the 10th-ranked jet, and zero points for aircraft not in the top 10 for that specific characteristic.
When considering cost, the ranking was reversed, awarding fewer points to the most expensive aircraft and more points to the least expensive. For evaluating stealth, a smaller radar cross-section (RCS) value resulted in more points awarded, reflecting higher stealth capability. This scoring system aims to provide a balanced perspective on what constitutes the “best” in a diverse field of combat aircraft.
1. Sukhoi Su-57 Felon
The Sukhoi Su 57 Felon performing a tight turn, recognized as a top latest fighter aircraft
| 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 | 8 |
| Speed | Mach 2 | 1 |
| Popularity | 22 in service | 0 |
| Total | 35 |
Positioning the Sukhoi Su-57 as the best fighter jet in the world is likely to spark debate, especially considering the advanced fighters operated by Western nations, notably the F-22. However, with the Su-57, Russia has engineered a truly formidable aircraft. It scores exceptionally well across multiple performance metrics, including agility, weapons payload, and stealth capabilities. Crucially, Russia has integrated this advanced technology into an airframe estimated to cost significantly less than other advanced fighter aircraft. Reports from outlets like Bulgarian Military estimate the unit cost to be in the range of $35-$50 million. Its multi-dimensional thrust vectoring nozzles contribute significantly to the Su-57’s supermaneuverability, providing a superb thrust-to-weight ratio that allows for extremely tight turns. While its stealth shaping may be less refined compared to its Western 5th-generation counterparts, the Su-57 compensates with advanced high-tech sensors, superior raw aerodynamic performance, and a flexible loadout of both internal and external ordnance.
2. Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II
The Lockheed Martin F 35 Lightning II, a prominent example of a latest fighter aircraft, on a wet runway
| 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 | 5 |
| Speed | Mach 1.6 | 0 |
| Popularity | 712 in service | 4 |
| Total | 28 |
While the F-35 did not secure the top spot over its Russian competitor in this specific ranking, it’s vital to recognize the vast operational scale of the F-35. With over 700 units actively serving globally, it forms the fundamental backbone of the US Air Force and is operated by numerous allied nations, highlighting its significant presence in the inventory of fighter aircraft manufacturing countries. The F-35 boasts superior stealth characteristics compared to the Su-57, designed for stealth from all angles, not just the front. Its radar cross-section (RCS) is reportedly equivalent to that of a golf ball. However, it is not as fast as the Su-57 and lacks true supercruise capability (sustaining supersonic speeds without engaging afterburners). The F-35 lost points due to its higher unit cost, with some variants costing around double the estimated price of the Su-57. Nevertheless, as a genuinely multirole fighter jet capable of excelling across a broad spectrum of mission profiles, the F-35 Lightning II remains a leading example of the best fighter aircraft in operation today.
3. Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon
The Chengdu J 20 Mighty Dragon in flight, a powerful latest fighter aircraft from China
| J-20 Mighty Dragon Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $110 million | 4 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 1.00 | 4 |
| Stealth | RCS 0.05 | 8 |
| Weapons | 24,000 lbs | 9 |
| Speed | Mach 2 | 1 |
| Popularity | 195 in service | 0 |
| Total | 26 |
Entering the list strongly is the ‘Mighty Dragon,’ China’s Chengdu J-20. As China’s first 5th-generation stealth fighter, it is one of only a few truly stealthy operational fighter jets globally. While undoubtedly influenced by the capabilities of the F-22 and F-35, the J-20 has matured into a highly capable fighter in its own right. The J-20 was conceptually designed with long-range operations in mind. Although not the absolute fastest on this list, it can achieve speeds of Mach 2 and maintain them without afterburners, providing it with true supercruise capability. While currently estimated to have around 195 units operational, reports suggest its production rate exceeds that of any other twin-engine fighter, potentially in the range of 100-120 aircraft per year. All these aircraft are intended for the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) as it is not exported, signifying a significant buildup of modern air power. Discussions surrounding china 6th generation fighter aircraft indicate continued advancements in Chinese aerospace technology.
4. Boeing F-15EX Eagle II
The Boeing F 15EX Eagle II, a formidable latest fighter aircraft, shown flying
| Boeing F-15EX Eagle II Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $97 million | 6 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 0.93 | 0 |
| Stealth | Not stealth | 0 |
| Weapons | 29,500 lbs | 10 |
| Speed | Mach 2.5 | 8 |
| Popularity | 8 in service | 0 |
| Total | 24 |
When it comes to the sheer capacity to carry ordnance, virtually no other aircraft can rival the Boeing F-15EX Eagle II. Capable of carrying nearly 30,000 lbs of weapons, it is justifiably known as the most heavily armed fighter jet currently in operation. While it lacks stealth characteristics, the F-15EX is not designed to rely on stealth. Instead, its blistering top speed of Mach 2.5 allows it to rapidly ingress, deliver its massive payload, and egress the target area. Utilizing the Advanced Missile and Bomb Ejector Rack (AMBER) system, it can deploy over 20 air-to-air missiles in a single sortie, making it an exceptional companion for more expensive, stealth-focused aircraft. It stands as the fastest operational fighter jet within the US Air Force inventory and one of the fastest globally, only surpassed by older, less relevant platforms like the MiG-25 and MiG-31. As of mid-2024, only a small number have been delivered, but many more are anticipated to join the USAF fleet in the coming years, representing a significant upgrade in capability.
5. Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor
The F 22 Raptor, a leading latest fighter aircraft, recognized for stealth and agility
| F-22 Raptor Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $143 million | 1 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 1.26 | 10 |
| Stealth | RCS 0.0001 | 10 |
| Weapons | 12,000 lbs | 0 |
| Speed | Mach 2.25 | 2 |
| Popularity | 178 in service | 0 |
| Total | 23 |
Some readers might be surprised to find the F-22 Raptor lower on this list, but its placement is a result of the specific scoring criteria used. This incredible piece of engineering represents the pinnacle of agility and stealth technology, arguably making it the most agile and stealthiest fighter jet ever built, with an RCS comparable to a marble. However, despite its ability to evade detection, the F-22 has a relatively limited internal weapons payload capacity compared to other aircraft on this list, which impacted its score in that category. It is also the most expensive fighter jet in the world by unit cost, exceeding $140 million per aircraft. Nevertheless, the F-22 remains a marvel of modern aerospace technology. Beyond its advanced stealth features, it is capable of sustained supercruise at Mach 1.8 and boasts a top speed of Mach 2.25, enabling it to rapidly pursue or disengage from targets. Although production of the F-22 has ceased with only 178 aircraft manufactured, it continues to be a formidable and leading example of the latest fighter aircraft in operation in 2025.
6. General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon
The General Dynamics F 16 Fighting Falcon, the most widely operated latest fighter aircraft, in flight
| 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 | 0 |
| Speed | Mach 2 | 1 |
| Popularity | 2,084 in service | 10 |
| Total | 21 |
The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon holds the distinction of being by far the most powerful fighter aircraft in terms of sheer numbers. According to the 2025 World Air Forces Directory, over 2,000 units are currently operational across the globe, including large fleets operated by the USAF and various allied nations. While the ‘Viper’ originated in the 1970s, it remains highly relevant due to continuous and significant upgrades. It is a genuinely multirole aircraft, performing equally well in air-to-air combat, ground attack missions, and reconnaissance roles. It is compatible with nearly every weapon system in the US and NATO inventories. The most recent variants, such as the Block 70/72, have transformed the F-16 into a 4th generation++ aircraft, incorporating advanced features like new radars, mission computers, infrared tracking systems, and other updates. It is the least expensive aircraft on this list to procure and has proven its capabilities in numerous conflicts, demonstrating why it remains a cornerstone for many fighter aircraft manufacturing countries.
7. Sukhoi Su-35
The Sukhoi Su 35 performing a steep turn against a blue sky, known for its agility as a latest fighter aircraft
| 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 | 2 |
| Speed | Mach 2.25 | 2 |
| Popularity | 118+ in service | 0 |
| Total | 19 |
While the Sukhoi Su-35 does not incorporate stealth technology, it stands as one of the most formidable 4th-generation fighter aircraft operational today. Its exceptional agility is facilitated by two-plane thrust vectoring, a technology uniquely implemented in production aircraft by the Su-35. This makes it a dangerous adversary in close-range dogfights, capable of out-turning the majority of Western jets. Combined with a large internal fuel capacity, extended combat range, and a powerful passive electronically scanned array (PESA) radar, it is well-suited for both air superiority and sustained patrol missions. The Su-35 can carry a substantial weapons load of over 17,000 lbs. This capacity, along with advanced electronic warfare systems, an infrared search and track (IRST) sensor, and a high top speed of Mach 2.25, makes it a credible force in both defensive and offensive roles. With over 100 units currently in service and exports to nations like China and Egypt, the Su-35 represents a significant component of Russia’s tactical airpower in 2025 and is a relevant factor in any modern fighter aircraft comparison.
8. Eurofighter Typhoon
The Eurofighter Typhoon, recognized among the best latest fighter aircraft, in flight
| 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 | 6 |
| Speed | Mach 2 | 1 |
| Popularity | 533 in service | 3 |
| Total | 19 |
The Eurofighter Typhoon serves as a foundational element of European air power. Initially designed with a focus on air superiority, it has successfully evolved into a true multirole fighter aircraft. While it may not dominate any single performance category, its strength lies in its balanced competence across a wide range of capabilities, avoiding significant sacrifices in one area for exceptional performance in another. Developed and first flown in the late 20th century, the Typhoon has undergone consistent upgrades over the years. The most recent Tranche 5 enhancements include a redesigned cockpit featuring large area displays, improved connectivity, and the ability to operate collaboratively with unmanned aerial vehicles (drones). Across its operational envelope, the Typhoon demonstrates impressive agility. Its sophisticated avionics suite and sensor fusion capabilities contribute to its survivability in contested airspace. It is also capable of sustained supercruise at Mach 1.5 even when fully loaded, a key characteristic for a modern fighter aircraft comparison.
9. Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet
The Boeing FA 18EF Super Hornet performing a tight turn, a key latest fighter aircraft for the US Navy
| 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 | 3 |
| Speed | Mach 1.8 | 0 |
| Popularity | 827 in service | 6 |
| Total | 18 |
Serving as the core of the US Navy’s carrier air wings, the F/A-18 has been in service in various iterations since 1978. Its most current version, the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, is a significantly enhanced aircraft compatible with 21st-century warfare requirements. It offers increased range, a greater weapons payload capacity, and demands fewer maintenance hours compared to the original Hornet model. With a unit cost in the range of $73 million, it remains among the top 10 most expensive fighter aircraft globally, yet is approximately half the cost of an F-22. Its ordnance capacity of 17,750 lbs is substantial, and it has been designed for broad compatibility with a vast array of US and NATO munitions, highlighting its versatility among fighter aircraft manufacturing countries. Although visually similar to a larger F/A-18C/D, the Super Hornet is fundamentally a new aircraft, with about 80% of its structure redesigned. The E/F designation distinguishes single-seater (E) from twin-seater (F) versions, both incorporating folding wings essential for operations from aircraft carriers.
10. Dassault Rafale
A Dassault Rafale flying above the clouds, a prime example of a latest fighter aircraft
| 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 | 7 |
| Speed | Mach 1.8 | 0 |
| Popularity | 299 in service | 0 |
| Total | 16 |
Dassault Aviation’s flagship fighter jet is the Rafale, whose name translates to ‘gust of wind’ in French. This aircraft combines aesthetic elegance with potent combat capabilities. The Rafale is engineered for ‘omnirole’ capability, a step beyond typical multirole design, meaning it can execute all mission types simultaneously rather than merely switching between them. It features advanced avionics and sensor fusion, complemented by one of the world’s most sophisticated electronic warfare suites, SPECTRA. While it does not possess the full stealth characteristics of 5th-generation fighters like the F-22, the Rafale incorporates stealth design elements to reduce its radar cross-section (RCS). The latest F-4 standard includes significant radar and sensor upgrades specifically designed to enhance its ability to detect stealth aircraft at long ranges, positioning it as an effective hunter of low-observable targets and a strong contender in any modern fighter aircraft comparison.
What’s Next in Fighter Aircraft?
While this list focuses on the few truly operational 5th-generation fighter jets and the most capable 4/4.5-generation aircraft today, several promising new platforms are poised to join the ranks of the latest fighter aircraft in the coming years. Progress is being made on South Korea’s KAI KF-21 Boramae, the nation’s first domestically produced advanced fighter jet. With six prototypes built, the first production model has reportedly entered final assembly. Initial specifications suggest a top speed of Mach 1.8 and a potential payload capacity of up to 17,000 lbs.
The KF 21 Boramae, an upcoming latest fighter aircraft from South Korea
Described as a 4.5-generation aircraft, the KF-21 is not expected to fully match the most advanced 5th-generation jets but aims to surpass aircraft like the Typhoon and Rafale with improved stealth capabilities and advanced avionics. It is currently projected to enter service in 2026. Elsewhere, Turkey is developing the TAI TF Kaan, though only one prototype exists so far. India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program is slightly further behind, with no prototype yet constructed, representing ongoing efforts by fighter aircraft manufacturing countries to develop indigenous capabilities. In Russia, the Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate, a planned light fighter jet, was showcased at MAKS 2021 and Dubai Airshow 2023. However, its development has reportedly faced delays due to sanctions. While an initial service entry was targeted for 2027, current progress on the project remains largely unknown.
The Sukhoi Su 75 Checkmate light fighter jet prototype displayed at Dubai Airshow
Following closely behind these anticipated 5th-generation additions is the emergence of super-advanced aircraft intended to form the 6th-generation fleet. While none have yet been built, some manufacturers are targeting initial operational capability in the early 2030s. When these advanced platforms arrive, the landscape of the latest fighter aircraft is certain to be significantly reshaped, redefining what constitutes the most powerful fighter aircraft in the world.
References
- Bulgarian Military
- Military Watch
- Janes
- FlightGlobal
