Fighter aircraft

The Top Fighter Aircraft in the World for 2025 Revealed

Pinpointing the single “best” fighter jet is a complex challenge. These incredible machines are designed for diverse roles and missions, often excelling in one area while compromising in another. Yet, the sheer performance and technological prowess of the Top Fighter Aircraft In The World are nothing short of astonishing. AeroTime has conducted an in-depth review of the capabilities of currently operational fighter jets across the globe, meticulously selecting 10 standouts to compile this definitive list for 2025.

To be considered for this exclusive ranking of the best fighter jets, aircraft had to be fully operational and actively in service. Experimental models, prototypes, or aircraft still under development were not included, focusing purely on the powerhouses shaping the skies today. This exploration into cutting-edge military aviation reveals the fascinating intersection of engineering marvels and strategic might, offering a glimpse into the high-stakes world of air superiority. Looking into the capabilities of these formidable machines provides insights into the forefront of military technology, a topic that often sparks intrigue. The world of high-performance military hardware, while distinct from traditional entertainment, certainly holds a captivating appeal for many, showcasing incredible human ingenuity. Examining these aerial powerhouses offers a unique perspective on global defense capabilities and technological advancement. Understanding the landscape of fighter military aircraft types operational today is key to appreciating their strategic importance and the incredible feats of engineering they represent.

Here are the aircraft that made the cut for 2025:

The 10 Best Fighter Jets in 2025

Aircraft Why it’s amongst the ‘best’
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 ever built
Boeing F-15EX Eagle II The most heavily armed fighter jet
General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon The most widely used fighter jet in the world
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

To provide a comprehensive evaluation of these fighter jets’ overall capabilities, a scoring system was utilized, based on various key categories. These performance metrics included cost, stealth capabilities, agility, weapons payload capacity, maximum speed, and how widely the aircraft is currently used globally.

Points were allocated based on each aircraft’s ranking within the top 10 across these characteristics. For the majority of categories, the jet ranked number 1 received 10 points, decreasing to one point for the 10th-ranked jet. Aircraft falling outside the top 10 in a specific category received zero points for that metric. A different approach was taken for cost and stealth. For cost, fewer points were given to the most expensive aircraft, reflecting a value consideration. For stealth, the aircraft with the smallest radar cross section (RCS) was awarded the highest points, as a lower RCS indicates superior stealth performance.

1. Sukhoi Su-57 Felon

Ranking the Sukhoi Su-57 as the best fighter jet currently operating in the world is a choice that is likely to spark significant debate among defense analysts and aviation enthusiasts. After all, the United States possesses some of the most technologically advanced fighter aircraft on the planet, with the F-22 Raptor being a prime example of cutting-edge capability.

In the Sukhoi Su-57, however, Russian engineers have succeeded in developing a truly formidable combat aircraft. This jet achieved high scores in critical performance areas such as agility, its substantial weapons payload capacity, and stealth characteristics. Crucially, Russia has managed to integrate this high level of technology into an aircraft with a significantly lower cost per unit compared to many other advanced fighters on the market. According to estimations from Bulgarian Military, the acquisition cost per unit for the Su-57 ranges between $35 million and $50 million, making it one of the more affordable advanced fighters available.

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 of payload 8
Speed Mach 2 1
Popularity 22 in service 0
Total 35

The exceptional supermaneuverability of the Su-57 is a result of its sophisticated 3D thrust vectoring nozzles, combined with a superb thrust-to-weight ratio. This allows the aircraft to perform incredibly tight turns and complex maneuvers, giving it a significant advantage in close-quarters combat. While the Su-57’s stealth features may be considered less refined or comprehensive compared to its Western counterparts like the F-22 or F-35, it compensates for this with advanced high-tech sensors, outstanding raw aerodynamic performance, and the flexibility of carrying a versatile loadout of both internal and external weaponry.

Russian Sukhoi Su-57 Felon fighter aircraft in flight, ranked among the top fighter aircraft in the world.Russian Sukhoi Su-57 Felon fighter aircraft in flight, ranked among the top fighter aircraft in the world.

2. Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II

Although the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II did not secure the top position on this list, being edged out by its Russian competitor, it is essential to highlight its significantly wider operational presence and overall impact. With more than 700 units currently in active service worldwide, the F-35 serves as the fundamental backbone of the United States Air Force’s modern fleet, alongside forming crucial components of numerous allied air arms.

The F-35 boasts superior stealth capabilities compared to the Su-57, designed to be stealthy from all angles, not just the front profile. Its radar cross section (RCS) is remarkably small, often cited as equivalent to that of a golf ball, measuring approximately 0.0015 square meters. However, the F-35 is not as fast as the Su-57 and lacks the capability for true supercruise – sustained supersonic flight without relying on afterburners, which consume fuel at a high rate.

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 of payload 5
Speed Mach 1.6 0
Popularity 712 in active service 4
Total 28

The F-35 lost points in the scoring primarily due to its relatively high cost. Depending on the specific variant (F-35A, F-35B, F-35C), the price per unit can be approximately twice that of the reported cost for the Su-57. Despite this, its designation as a true multirole fighter jet allows it to excel in virtually any operational scenario – from air-to-air combat and ground attack to electronic warfare and reconnaissance. This versatility ensures the F-35 remains undeniably one of the Top Fighter Aircraft In The World today.

Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II multirole stealth fighter jet on a runway at sunset.Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II multirole stealth fighter jet on a runway at sunset.

3. Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon

Arriving forcefully on the scene is the ‘Mighty Dragon,’ China’s Chengdu J-20. This aircraft holds the distinction of being China’s first domestically developed fifth-generation stealth fighter and is one of only four operational stealth fighter jets in service around the globe today. While its design and capabilities have undoubtedly drawn inspiration from the impressive features of the American F-22 and F-35, the J-20 has evolved into a highly capable and distinctive fighter aircraft in its own right.

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 of payload 9
Speed Mach 2 1
Popularity 195 in service 0
Total 26

The J-20 was specifically designed with long-range operational capabilities in mind. While it may not possess the outright maximum speed of some other fighters on this list, it is capable of reaching Mach 2 and, significantly, can maintain these supersonic speeds without engaging its afterburners, providing true supercruise capability. Although the exact number is difficult to confirm, estimates suggest around two hundred units are currently operational within the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). Military Watch has noted that the J-20 is reportedly being produced at a rate exceeding that of any other twin-engine fighter globally, with projections of 100-120 aircraft built per year. These aircraft are not designated for export, with all production units intended for service exclusively within the PLAAF. Examining the capabilities of fighter aircraft of China like the J-20 highlights the nation’s significant advancements in military aviation technology and its growing role on the global stage.

China's Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon stealth fighter jet in flight, noted for its agility.China’s Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon stealth fighter jet in flight, noted for its agility.

4. Boeing F-15EX Eagle II

When evaluating fighter aircraft based on their weapons payload capacity, the Boeing F-15EX Eagle II stands in a class of its own, with no other aircraft on this list coming close. This powerful jet is capable of carrying an astonishing almost 30,000 pounds of ordnance, effectively making it the most heavily armed fighter jet in the world today.

While the F-15EX is not designed to be stealthy, it compensates for this lack of stealth with blistering speed and overwhelming firepower. Instead of attempting to sneak past defenses undetected, its impressive top speed of Mach 2.5 allows it to rapidly enter a combat zone, deliver its massive payload, and quickly disengage. Utilizing the Advanced Missile and Bomb Ejector Rack (AMBER) system, the F-15EX can carry over 20 air-to-air missiles in a single sortie, making it an ideal complement and escort for more expensive, stealth-focused aircraft.

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 of payload 10
Speed Mach 2.5 8
Popularity 8 in service 0
Total 24

The F-15EX holds the distinction of being the fastest operational fighter jet currently in service with the United States Air Force, surpassed globally only by older, practically obsolete Russian interceptors like the MiG-25 and MiG-31. As of mid-2024, only eight units have been delivered, with the first arriving in June 2024 to the Oregon Air National Guard. According to reports from Janes, tail numbers 9, 10, and 11 are nearing delivery, with plans for many more F-15EX aircraft to join the USAF inventory in the coming years.

Boeing F-15EX Eagle II fighter jet in flight, known for its massive weapons payload.Boeing F-15EX Eagle II fighter jet in flight, known for its massive weapons payload.

5. Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor

Some observers might be surprised to find the F-22 Raptor positioned relatively lower on this list of the top fighter aircraft in the world. However, there are specific reasons why it didn’t achieve a higher score according to the defined criteria. The F-22 represents an extraordinary feat of engineering, resulting in arguably the most agile and stealthiest fighter jet ever developed, possessing a radar cross section (RCS) that is comparable to the size of a marble, measuring a mere 0.0001 square meters.

Despite its unparalleled ability to penetrate contested airspace undetected, the F-22 is hampered by a relatively low internal weapons payload capacity compared to other aircraft on this list, which impacted its score. Furthermore, it is widely recognized as the most expensive fighter jet ever built, with a unit cost exceeding $140 million, although the total program cost per aircraft is often cited as closer to $300 million when factoring in development and production expenses.

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 of payload 0
Speed Mach 2.25 2
Popularity 178 in service 0
Total 23

Nevertheless, the F-22 Raptor remains a technological marvel of modern aeronautics. In addition to its advanced stealth features, it is capable of supercruise at Mach 1.8 and boasts a top speed of Mach 2.25, enabling it to rapidly engage or disengage from confrontations. Production of the F-22 has concluded, with a limited number of only 178 aircraft ultimately built. Despite this, the small fleet of Raptors continues to be a formidable and unmatched aerial combat platform in the skies of 2025. Exploring the evolution of military aviation often involves looking at the 5 best fighter aircrafts ever, and the F-22 is almost always on such lists for its groundbreaking capabilities.

Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor stealth fighter jet in flight, highly ranked for stealth and agility.Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor stealth fighter jet in flight, highly ranked for stealth and agility.

6. General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon

Without question, the General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon is the most widely operated fighter jet in the world today, a testament to its enduring design and adaptability. Affectionately known as the ‘Viper’ by its pilots and crews, the F-16 traces its origins back to the 1970s, yet it remains highly relevant and effective through continuous upgrades and modernization programs.

According to the comprehensive 2025 World Air Forces Directory, an impressive 2,084 F-16 units are currently operational across various air forces worldwide. This includes a significant fleet of over 700 aircraft within the United States Air Force, alongside large numbers operated by key allies such as Egypt, Israel, Greece, and Turkey. Its widespread adoption highlights its reliability and effectiveness across diverse operational requirements. Looking at the global use of aircraft like the F-16 underscores the strategic military relationships between countries, including the operational capabilities of israel fighter aircraft.

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 of payload 0
Speed Mach 2 1
Popularity 2,084 in active service 10
Total 21

The F-16 is a true multirole aircraft, equally adept at engaging in air-to-air combat missions as it is at performing ground attack roles or conducting reconnaissance sorties. Its design supports integration with virtually every weapon system within the US and NATO inventories, enhancing its flexibility and interoperability. The most recent iteration, the F-16 Block 70/72, represents a significant advancement, effectively creating a ‘fourth generation plus-plus’ (4++ gen) aircraft. This block features advanced systems such as new Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radars, powerful mission computers, enhanced infrared tracking capabilities, and numerous other critical updates. It is notably the least expensive fighter jet on this list to acquire and has proven its combat capabilities extensively in multiple conflicts, ranging from Operation Desert Storm to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon in flight over terrain, the most widely used fighter jet globally.General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon in flight over terrain, the most widely used fighter jet globally.

7. Sukhoi Su-35

While the Sukhoi Su-35 is not considered a stealth aircraft, it undeniably remains one of the world’s most formidable fourth-generation fighters currently in operation. Its standout feature is exceptional agility, achieved through the implementation of two-plane thrust vectoring technology. This makes the Su-35 the only production aircraft globally to utilize this advanced maneuverability system.

In close-quarters dogfights, the Su-35 is a highly dangerous adversary, capable of out-turning and outmaneuvering the majority of Western fighter jets. This agility, combined with a large internal fuel capacity providing extended combat range and a powerful passive electronically scanned array (PESA) radar system, positions the Su-35 effectively for both air superiority missions and prolonged patrol duties.

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 of payload 2
Speed Mach 2.25 2
Popularity 118+ in service 0
Total 19

The Su-35 can carry a substantial weapons load of over 17,000 pounds. This impressive payload, coupled with its sophisticated electronic warfare systems, advanced infrared search and track (IRST) sensor, and a high top speed of Mach 2.25, establishes the Su-35 as a credible and potent force capable of undertaking both defensive and offensive missions. With more than 100 units currently in active service and export agreements with countries including China and Egypt, the Su-35 serves as a crucial pillar of Russia’s tactical airpower capabilities in 2025.

Russian Sukhoi Su-35 fighter aircraft performing a steep turn against a blue sky.Russian Sukhoi Su-35 fighter aircraft performing a steep turn against a blue sky.

8. Eurofighter Typhoon

The Eurofighter Typhoon stands as a vital cornerstone of European air power and capabilities. Originally conceived and designed primarily for the air superiority role, the Typhoon has undergone systematic evolution and upgrades over the years, transforming it into a highly capable multirole fighter aircraft. While it may not hold the absolute top spot in any single performance category, its strength lies in its well-rounded capabilities; rather than prioritizing one trait at the expense of others, the Typhoon demonstrates a high level of competence across all aspects of modern aerial warfare.

Designed and initially built towards the end of the 20th century, the Typhoon has been continuously enhanced through a series of modernization packages. The most recent Tranche 5 upgrades, for instance, feature significant improvements including a redesigned cockpit equipped with large area displays, enhanced connectivity options, and the advanced capability to operate seamlessly alongside unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones.

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 of payload 6
Speed Mach 2 1
Popularity 533 in service 3
Total 19

Across its operational performance envelope, the Eurofighter Typhoon exhibits exceptional agility and maneuverability, which is crucial in dynamic combat scenarios. Its suite of advanced avionics and sophisticated sensor systems significantly contributes to its survivability in contested airspace. Furthermore, the Typhoon is capable of achieving supercruise, maintaining speeds of Mach 1.5 even when carrying a full operational weapons load. With 533 units in service, it remains a significant force in the European air forces.

Eurofighter Typhoon multirole combat aircraft in flight, a key asset for European air forces.Eurofighter Typhoon multirole combat aircraft in flight, a key asset for European air forces.

9. Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet

Serving as the robust backbone of the United States Navy’s carrier air wing, the F/A-18 platform has been a vital component of naval aviation in various forms since its introduction in 1978. The latest iteration, the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, represents a comprehensive modernization effort, resulting in an aircraft fully compatible with 21st-century warfare requirements. Compared to the original Hornet models (A through D), the Super Hornet boasts extended range, a greater weapons payload capacity, and significantly reduced maintenance hours, enhancing its operational efficiency aboard aircraft carriers.

Positioned within the range of $73 million per unit, the Super Hornet, while not the cheapest, is still considerably less expensive than high-end fifth-generation fighters like the F-22, costing roughly half as much. Its ability to carry an impressive 17,750 pounds of ordnance is a key strength, and it has been engineered for seamless compatibility with a vast array of weapon systems used by the US military and NATO allies, ensuring versatility across different mission profiles.

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 of payload 3
Speed Mach 1.8 0
Popularity 827 in service 6
Total 18

Although the Super Hornet bears a visual resemblance to a larger, more muscular version of the earlier F/A-18C/D Hornet, it is fundamentally a new aircraft. Approximately 80% of its airframe structure has been completely redesigned to enhance performance and durability. The ‘E’ designation signifies the single-seat variant, while the ‘F’ denotes the twin-seat version. All models are specifically built with folding wings, a crucial feature that makes them suitable for operating from the confined spaces of aircraft carrier decks. With 827 units in service, it remains a dominant force in naval air operations.

Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet performing a tight turn, the backbone of the US Navy's air arm.Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet performing a tight turn, the backbone of the US Navy’s air arm.

10. Dassault Rafale

Dassault Aviation’s flagship fighter jet is the Rafale, a name that translates poetically to ‘gust of wind’ in French. This aircraft is frequently lauded for its aesthetic elegance, featuring graceful sweeping curves and a distinctive sharply pointed nose. However, beyond its striking appearance, the Rafale is engineered to be as lethal and effective in combat as its name suggests.

The Rafale is built to embody the concept of ‘omnirole’ capability, which goes a step beyond traditional multirole functionality. This means the aircraft is designed to perform all mission types—such as air defense, ground attack, reconnaissance, and nuclear deterrence—simultaneously or transition between them instantaneously during a single sortie, offering unparalleled operational flexibility. It incorporates highly advanced avionics and sensor fusion systems, seamlessly integrating data from multiple sources to provide pilots with a comprehensive understanding of the battlespace. Furthermore, it is equipped with one of the most sophisticated electronic warfare suites in the world, known as SPECTRA (Self-Protection Equipment to Counter Threats for Rafale 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 of payload 7
Speed Mach 1.8 0
Popularity 299 in service 0
Total 16

While the Rafale cannot be classified as a fully stealth aircraft on the same level as the F-22 or F-35, its design does incorporate significant stealth features aimed at reducing its radar cross section (RCS) and infrared signature. The latest standard, designated F4, includes advanced radar and sensor upgrades specifically designed to enhance its ability to detect and track stealth aircraft from extended ranges, positioning the Rafale as one of the most capable ‘hunters’ of low-observable threats currently flying. With 299 aircraft in service, the Rafale is a potent force for France and its export customers.

Dassault Rafale omnirole fighter jet flying above the clouds.Dassault Rafale omnirole fighter jet flying above the clouds.

The Future of Top Fighter Aircraft

While the focus for 2025 remains on the handful of truly operational fifth-generation fighter jets currently in service, the landscape of the top fighter aircraft in the world is poised for significant change in the coming years. Several new, highly advanced aircraft are currently under development and are expected to join the ranks of the world’s most capable fighters soon.

One promising development is the KAI KF-21 Boramae, South Korea’s first domestically produced advanced fighter jet program. Development is progressing steadily, with six prototypes already manufactured. The first serial production model has reportedly entered final assembly, moving closer to operational status. Initial performance indications for the KF-21 suggest it will achieve a top speed of around Mach 1.8 and be capable of carrying a substantial weapons payload of up to 17,000 pounds.

South Korea's KAI KF-21 Boramae prototype advanced fighter jet in flight.South Korea’s KAI KF-21 Boramae prototype advanced fighter jet in flight.

The KF-21 is often described as a ‘4.5-generation’ aircraft. While it may not be as overtly advanced as some of the world’s leading fifth-generation fighters, it incorporates significantly better stealth capabilities and more advanced avionics than many established fourth-generation platforms like the Eurofighter Typhoon and Dassault Rafale. It is currently anticipated to enter operational service with the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) in 2026.

Other nations are also actively developing their next-generation capabilities. Turkey is progressing with its TAI TF Kaan program, although only one prototype exists so far. India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) stealth fighter program is somewhat less advanced, with no prototype having been built as of yet, despite recent momentum. Globally, numerous programs are underway exploring us next generation fighter aircraft and similar concepts from other major defense powers, hinting at the capabilities that will emerge in the next decade.

In Russia, the Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate light fighter jet prototype was publicly displayed at the MAKS airshow in 2021 and again at the Dubai Airshow in 2023. However, the development of the Su-75 program has reportedly experienced delays, partly attributed to sanctions imposed on the country. While the original projected timeline for entry into service was set for 2027, current progress on the project remains largely uncertain.

Russian Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate light fighter jet prototype displayed at an airshow.Russian Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate light fighter jet prototype displayed at an airshow.

Hot on the heels of these emerging fifth-generation fighters is a new wave of super-advanced aircraft intended to form the core of the sixth-generation fleet. As of now, none of these sixth-generation concepts have progressed to the point of having physical prototypes built. However, several manufacturers and defense ministries are optimistically targeting introduction dates in the early 2030s. When these revolutionary aircraft finally arrive, the current ranking and understanding of the best fighter jets will undoubtedly transform immeasurably.

References

https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/best-fighter-jets
https://bulgarianmilitary.com/2025/01/25/from-rubles-to-rubble-the-true-cost-of-fielding-su-57-felon/
https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/stealthiest-fighter-jets
https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/most-heavily-armed-fighter-jets
https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/top-10-worlds-fastest-fighter-jets
https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/oregon-air-national-guard-receives-first-operational-f-15ex-eagle-ii-fighter-jet
https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/air/boeing-preparing-to-deliver-f-15ex-lot-2-planning-additional-capabilities
https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/27553-top-10-most-expensive-fighter-jets
https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/top-10-most-widely-operated-fighter-jets
https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/2025-world-air-forces-directory/160846.article
https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/kf-21-final-assembly-mass-production-south-korea
https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/turkeys-tf-x-fifth-generation-fighter-jet-is-officially-named-kaan
https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/india-launches-amca-stealth-fighter-program-amid-china-and-pakistan-tensions
https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/28413-russia-unveils-sukhoi-checkmate-new-light-fighter-jet

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