Establishing which are the best Modern Fighter Aircraft Of The World is a complex undertaking. These sophisticated machines are designed for specific roles and missions, often excelling in one particular area while making trade-offs in others. Evaluating overall superiority requires considering a range of factors from agility and stealth to payload capacity and cost.
Nevertheless, the performance capabilities of the top-tier fighter jets within their designed domains are truly remarkable. AeroTime has conducted an extensive review of the current fleet of operational fighter jets globally and identified 10 of the most outstanding examples to compile this definitive list for 2025. To be included in this ranking, aircraft must be fully operational and actively serving in military forces. Experimental aircraft, prototypes, and those still under development have been excluded from consideration.
The 10 Best Modern Fighter Aircraft in 2025
Topping the list of the best Modern Fighter Aircraft Of The World in 2025 is Russia’s flagship 5th-generation jet, the Sukhoi Su-57. It earned high marks for its exceptional agility and notable stealth characteristics. Furthermore, with an estimated unit cost of just $50 million, it stands out as one of the most cost-effective advanced fighter jets available for air forces to procure.
Sukhoi Su-57 Felon fighter jet flying, ranked best modern fighter aircraft in 2025
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 sheer weapons carrying capacity of the F-15EX, its comprehensive all-around performance and genuine multirole capabilities distinguish it from many competitors. Its stealth technology is particularly exceptional, surpassed only by the more expensive F-22 Raptor.
Taking the bronze spot is China’s first domestically developed 5th-generation fighter jet, the Chengdu J-20 ‘Mighty Dragon’. It is one of only four operational stealth fighters currently in service worldwide. The J-20 is highly regarded for its substantial 24,000 lb weapons payload, a significant portion of which is carried internally, contributing to its impressive stealth profile.
Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon stealth fighter jet in flight, known for agility
Explore the remainder of the top 10 best modern fighter aircraft in the summary table below, and continue reading for a more detailed look at the strengths and characteristics of each remarkable machine.
The Best Modern Fighter Aircraft: The Complete List
| Aircraft | Key Strength |
|---|---|
| Sukhoi Su-57 Felon | The most agile fighter jet in the world |
| Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II | The most capable multirole aircraft |
| Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon | A stealthy, heavily armed, multirole aircraft |
| Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor | The stealthiest and most expensive fighter jet |
| 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 | An agile, heavily armed and expensive fighter |
Note on Scoring for the ‘Best’ Fighter Jets
To provide a comprehensive evaluation of these fighter jets’ overall capabilities, a scoring system was employed based on various categories. These categories include: cost, stealth, agility, weapons payload capacity, maximum speed, and the extent of their global operational use (popularity).
Points were allocated based on an aircraft’s ranking within the top 10 for each specific characteristic. In most categories, the top-ranked aircraft received 10 points, decreasing incrementally down to one point for the 10th-ranked jet. Aircraft outside the top 10 in a specific characteristic received no points in that category.
For the ‘Cost’ category, the ranking was inverted, meaning less expensive aircraft received more points. In the ‘Stealth’ category, aircraft with a smaller Radar Cross Section (RCS) were awarded the most points.
1. Sukhoi Su-57 Felon
Sukhoi Su-57 Felon fighter jet performing a tight turn, highlighting agility
| Su-57 Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $50 million | 10 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 1.20 | 9 |
| Stealth | RCS 0.1 m² | 7 |
| Weapons | 22,000 lbs payload | 8 |
| Speed | Mach 2 | 1 |
| Popularity | 22 in service | 0 |
| Total | 35 |
Ranking the Sukhoi Su-57 as the best modern fighter aircraft in the world for 2025 is a decision that may spark debate, especially considering the advanced fighters fielded by the USA, notably the F-22 Raptor. However, Russia has engineered a truly formidable jet in the Su-57. The aircraft scores impressively high for its agility, weapons payload, and stealth features. Crucially, Russia has succeeded in integrating this level of advanced technology into an aircraft with a significantly lower price point compared to other sophisticated fighters. Estimates from Bulgarian Military place the unit cost between $35-$50 million.
The supermaneuverability of the Su-57 is largely attributed to its 3D thrust vectoring nozzles, combined with a superb thrust-to-weight ratio allowing it to perform incredibly tight turns. While its stealth capabilities are considered less refined than its Western 5th-generation counterparts, the Su-57 compensates with advanced high-tech sensors, inherent aerodynamic performance, and a flexible loadout of both internal and external weaponry.
2. Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II
Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II multirole fighter jet on a runway at sunset
| F-35 Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $109 million | 5 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 1.07 | 5 |
| Stealth | RCS 0.0015 m² | 9 |
| Weapons | 18,000 lbs payload | 5 |
| Speed | Mach 1.6 | 0 |
| Popularity | 712 in active service | 4 |
| Total | 28 |
Although the F-35 missed the top spot to its Russian rival, it’s vital to highlight the F-35’s unparalleled proliferation and active deployment. With over 700 units currently in active service across various nations, the F-35 forms the technological backbone of the US Air Force and numerous allied air arms.
It boasts superior stealth capabilities compared to the Su-57, achieving a low radar cross section (RCS) from all angles, often compared to the size of a golf ball. However, it does not reach the maximum speed of the Su-57 and is not capable of true supercruise (maintaining supersonic speeds without using afterburners).
The F-35 lost points primarily due to its cost, with some variants costing roughly twice the estimated price of the Su-57. Nevertheless, as a genuine multirole fighter jet designed to excel across nearly any mission scenario, the F-35 remains undeniably one of the best modern fighter aircraft in service today. For those interested in the evolution of combat aviation, exploring fighter aircraft history provides valuable context to the development of jets like the F-35.
3. Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon
Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon 5th generation stealth fighter jet flying
| J-20 Mighty Dragon Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $110 million | 4 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 1.00 | 4 |
| Stealth | RCS 0.05 m² | 8 |
| Weapons | 24,000 lbs payload | 9 |
| Speed | Mach 2 | 1 |
| Popularity | 195 in service | 0 |
| Total | 26 |
Making a strong entry at number three is the ‘Mighty Dragon’, the Chengdu J-20. As China’s inaugural 5th-generation stealth fighter, it is one of only four truly stealth fighter jets currently operational worldwide. While its design and capabilities undoubtedly draw inspiration from pioneers like the F-22 and F-35, the J-20 has matured into a formidable fighter in its own right.
The J-20 was specifically conceived with long-range operational capabilities in mind. While not the absolute fastest jet on this list, it is capable of reaching Mach 2 and can sustain supersonic speeds without afterburners, granting it true supercruise ability.
Although estimations suggest only a couple of hundred units are operational thus far, Military Watch notes that the J-20 is being produced at a rate potentially exceeding three times that of any other twin-engine fighter, possibly reaching 100-120 aircraft per year. These aircraft are exclusively destined for the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and are not exported.
4. Boeing F-15EX Eagle II
Boeing F-15EX Eagle II multirole fighter jet during a flight
| 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 payload | 10 |
| Speed | Mach 2.5 | 8 |
| Popularity | 8 in service | 0 |
| Total | 24 |
When the metric is sheer weapons carrying capacity, no current aircraft can rival the Boeing F-15EX Eagle II. This flying bomb truck can be loaded with nearly 30,000 lbs of ordnance, solidifying its position as the most heavily armed fighter jet in the world.
Stealth is not a design priority for the F-15EX, nor does it need to be. Instead of relying on covert infiltration, its impressive top speed of Mach 2.5 allows it to rapidly ingress, deliver its payload, and egress. Using the Advanced Missile and Bomb Ejector Rack (AMBER) system, it can carry over 20 air-to-air missiles on a single mission, making it an ideal companion and escort for more expensive stealth assets. The F-15EX is also potentially the most powerful fighter aircraft in the world in terms of strike capability per sortie.
It is currently the fastest operational fighter jet in the US Air Force and indeed one of the fastest globally, surpassed only by legacy aircraft like the MiG-25 and MiG-31. As of late 2024, only eight units have been delivered, with the first arriving in June 2024. According to Janes, additional aircraft (tail numbers 9, 10, and 11) are nearing delivery, with plans for many more to join the USAF fleet in the coming years.
5. Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor
Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor stealth fighter jet, highly agile and stealthy
| F-22 Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Detail | Points |
| Cost | $143 million | 1 |
| Agility | Thrust-to-weight 1.26 | 10 |
| Stealth | RCS 0.0001 m² | 10 |
| Weapons | 12,000 lbs payload | 0 |
| Speed | Mach 2.25 | 2 |
| Popularity | 178 in service | 0 |
| Total | 23 |
Some readers might be surprised to see the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor placed further down this list, but its ranking reflects a balance of factors in the scoring methodology. This incredible engineering achievement resulted in arguably the most agile and stealthiest fighter jet ever built, boasting a radar cross section (RCS) often likened to that of a marble. It is a contender for the title of the most advanced US fighter aircraft.
However, while the F-22 excels at disappearing, it has a relatively limited weapons payload capacity, which resulted in a lower score in that category. It is also the most expensive fighter jet in the world, with a unit cost exceeding $140 million (and some estimates placing the total cost per aircraft closer to $300 million when development is included).
Despite these factors, the F-22 remains a marvel of modern aerospace technology. Beyond its advanced stealth, it is capable of supercruising at Mach 1.8 and reaching a top speed of Mach 2.25, allowing it to engage or disengage from combat rapidly. Production of the F-22 program has concluded, with only 178 aircraft ultimately built. Nevertheless, it remains a profoundly capable fighter jet in the skies of 2025.
6. General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon
General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon, most widely used fighter jet in the world, flying over terrain
| 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, affectionately known as the ‘Viper’, holds the distinction of being by far the most widely used fighter jet in the world today. According to the 2025 World Air Forces Directory, a staggering 2,084 units are currently operational globally, with significant fleets serving in the USAF as well as countries including Egypt, Israel, Greece, and Turkey.
Despite having a design history dating back to the 1970s, the F-16 remains highly relevant through continuous modernization programs. It is a truly multirole aircraft, equally adept at air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions. Its versatility extends to supporting almost every weapon system in the US and NATO inventories.
The latest iteration, the F-16 Block 70/72, represents a 4th generation++ advancement, incorporating new active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars, powerful mission computers, infrared tracking systems, and various other enhancements. Notably, it is the least expensive operational jet on this list to acquire. The F-16 has proven its capabilities and resilience in numerous conflicts, from Operation Desert Storm to its ongoing deployment in the conflict in Ukraine. It consistently ranks among the best 4th generation fighter aircraft.
7. Sukhoi Su-35
Sukhoi Su-35 4th generation fighter jet performing a steep turn
| 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 the Sukhoi Su-35 is not a stealth aircraft, it firmly stands as one of the world’s most formidable 4th-generation fighters. Its exceptional agility is facilitated by unique two-plane thrust vectoring technology, a feature found on few other production aircraft.
In close-quarters dogfights, the Su-35 presents a significant threat, capable of out-turning the majority of Western fighter jets. Coupled with a large internal fuel capacity providing extended combat range, and a powerful passive electronically scanned array (PESA) radar, it is well-suited for both air superiority roles and lengthy patrol missions.
The Su-35 can carry a substantial weapons load exceeding 17,000 lbs. This, along with its advanced electronic warfare suite, infrared search and track (IRST) sensor, and high speed of Mach 2.25, makes it a credible force in both defensive and offensive operations. With over 100 units currently in service and exports to nations like China and Egypt, the Su-35 remains a crucial component of Russia’s tactical airpower in 2025.
8. Eurofighter Typhoon
Eurofighter Typhoon multirole fighter jet 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 payload | 6 |
| Speed | Mach 2 | 1 |
| Popularity | 533 in service | 3 |
| Total | 19 |
The Eurofighter Typhoon is a cornerstone of European air capabilities. Initially conceived primarily for air superiority missions towards the end of the 20th century, it has since evolved into a highly capable multirole fighter. While it may not lead in any single performance category, its strength lies in its consistent and high level of competence across a broad spectrum of tasks, rather than sacrificing one area for another.
Designed and first built around the turn of the millennium, the Typhoon has benefited from systematic upgrades over the years. The most recent Tranche 5 enhancements include a redesigned cockpit featuring large area displays, improved connectivity, and the capacity to operate in conjunction with unmanned aerial vehicles (drones).
Across its performance envelope, the Typhoon exhibits exceptional agility. Its advanced avionics and comprehensive sensor suite contribute significantly to its survivability in contested airspace. It is also capable of supercruising at Mach 1.5 even when carrying a full combat load.
9. Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet
Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet naval fighter jet in a tight turn
| 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 foundational strike fighter for the US Navy’s carrier air wings, the F/A-18 has been in operation in various configurations since 1978. The latest evolution, the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, is effectively a new aircraft, modernized for 21st-century warfare. It boasts increased range, a greater weapons payload capacity, and requires fewer maintenance hours compared to the original Hornet models.
With a unit price in the range of $73 million, it remains one of the 10 most expensive fighter jets in the world, though notably half the cost of an F-22. Its ordnance carrying capability of 17,750 lbs is substantial, and it is specifically designed for compatibility with a vast array of US and NATO munitions.
While the Super Hornet bears a visual resemblance to the earlier F/A-18C/D models, it represents a major redesign, with approximately 80% of its structure modified. The E/F designation denotes single-seat (E) and twin-seat (F) variants, both of which feature folding wings, a critical design element for operations from aircraft carriers.
10. Dassault Rafale
Dassault Rafale omnirole fighter jet flying above clouds
| 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 Aviation’s premier fighter jet is the Rafale, a name meaning ‘gust of wind’ in French. The aircraft combines elegant aerodynamics with lethal capability. Its sweeping curves and distinctive sharply pointed nose contribute to both its aesthetic and aerodynamic performance.
The Rafale is built for ‘omnirole’ capability, a step beyond traditional multirole designs. This means the jet can perform different mission types concurrently, rather than merely switching between roles. It features highly advanced avionics and sophisticated sensor fusion, alongside one of the most respected electronic warfare suites globally, known as SPECTRA.
Although not classified as a fully stealth aircraft like the F-22, the Rafale incorporates various stealth design features aimed at reducing its radar cross section (RCS). The most recent standard, designated F-4, includes significant radar and sensor upgrades specifically designed to enhance its ability to detect stealth aircraft at long ranges, positioning it as one of the most capable hunters among current fighters.
What’s Coming Next in Fighter Aviation?
While the current landscape of operational 5th-generation fighter jets is relatively small, several additional advanced aircraft are expected to join the ranks of the world’s best fighter jets in the coming years.
South Korea’s KAI KF-21 Boramae, the nation’s first domestically-produced advanced fighter, is making good progress. Six prototypes have been manufactured, and the first serial production model has entered final assembly. Initial specifications suggest a top speed of Mach 1.8 and a payload capacity of up to 17,000 lbs.
KAI KF-21 Boramae prototype fighter jet flying
The KF-21 is described as a 4.5-generation aircraft. While not possessing the full suite of 5th-generation stealth capabilities, it features enhanced stealth aspects and advanced avionics that position it ahead of existing 4th-generation jets like the Typhoon and Rafale. It is currently projected to enter service in 2026.
Elsewhere, Turkey is developing the TAI TF Kaan, although only a single prototype exists at present. India is somewhat further behind with its Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, as no prototype has yet been constructed. For insights into this specific area, you can explore best fighter aircraft in india.
In Russia, the Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate light tactical fighter prototype was first displayed at MAKS in 2021 and later at the Dubai Airshow in 2023. However, development has reportedly faced delays following international sanctions imposed on the country. The initial target for entry into service was 2027, but current progress on the project is uncertain.
Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate light fighter jet prototype displayed at Dubai Airshow
Hot on the heels of these emerging 5th-generation designs is the anticipated arrival of a new generation of super-advanced aircraft that will comprise the 6th-generation fleet. While no prototypes have been built yet, some manufacturers are aiming for introduction as early as the 2030s. When these cutting-edge aircraft arrive, they are certain to dramatically redefine the landscape of the world’s best modern fighter aircraft.
