Establishing definitively which aircraft are the World Best Aircraft Fighter jets is a complex undertaking. Modern military aircraft are designed for specific operational roles and mission profiles, often excelling in one particular area while making compromises in others. Nevertheless, the sheer performance capabilities of the leading fighter aircraft within their designated areas of expertise are truly remarkable and push the boundaries of aviation technology.
Drawing upon a comprehensive review of the current operational fighter jet landscape around the globe, AeroTime has evaluated the capabilities of various platforms and compiled a definitive list of the top 10 best fighter aircraft for the year 2025. To qualify for this list, an aircraft must be currently operational and actively in service with an air force. Experimental aircraft, prototypes, or jets still under development were not considered for these rankings of the World Best Aircraft Fighter platforms. For a deeper dive into current fighter technology, explore articles on modern fighter aircraft of the world.
The Top 10 Best Fighter Aircraft in 2025
Leading the evaluation of the world best aircraft fighter jets in 2025 is Russia’s flagship advanced aircraft, the Sukhoi Su-57 Felon. It achieved high scores across key metrics including agility and stealth capabilities. Furthermore, with an estimated unit cost around $50 million, it stands out as one of the most cost-effective advanced fighter jets currently available to air forces, making it a notable contender in the discussion of the world best aircraft fighter.
In the second position is the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II. While it may not possess the same extreme agility as the Su-57 or the heavy weapons load capacity of the F-15EX, its exceptional all-around performance and genuine multirole capabilities distinguish it significantly from its competitors. Its stealth features are considered outstanding, surpassed only by the even more expensive F-22 Raptor.
Taking the third spot is China’s first domestically developed 5th-generation fighter jet, the Chengdu J-20 ‘Mighty Dragon’. This aircraft is one of only four currently operational stealth fighters worldwide. The J-20 is particularly noteworthy for its substantial internal weapons payload, contributing significantly to its impressive stealth profile and positioning it as a powerful contender among the world best aircraft fighter ranks. For a look at the leading models, check out this list of the top 10 fighter aircraft.
Here is a summary table outlining the top 10 best fighter aircraft, according to this analysis:
| Aircraft | Key Strengths in Ranking |
|---|---|
| Sukhoi Su-57 Felon | Ranked as the most agile fighter jet |
| Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II | Considered the most capable multirole aircraft |
| Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon | Stealthy, heavily armed, multirole platform |
| Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor | The stealthiest and most expensive fighter |
| Boeing F-15EX Eagle II | Carries the heaviest weapons load |
| General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon | The most widely operated fighter jet |
| Sukhoi Su-35 | An exceptional dogfighter |
| Eurofighter Typhoon | Agile and capable multirole aircraft |
| Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet | Effective, versatile, and robust |
| Dassault Rafale | Agile, heavily armed, and advanced |
Let’s delve a little deeper into what makes each of these aircraft rank among the elite, potentially the world best aircraft fighter in their respective categories.
Scoring Methodology for Defining the ‘Best’ Fighter Jets
To assess the comprehensive capabilities of these fighter jets, a scoring system was utilized based on various key categories. These included factors such as cost, stealth, agility, weapons payload capacity, speed, and the extent of their operational use globally (popularity).
Points were allocated based on the aircraft’s ranking within the top 10 for each specific characteristic. Generally, the aircraft ranked number 1 in a category received 10 points, with points decreasing down to one point for the 10th ranked jet. Aircraft outside the top 10 in a specific category received no points.
For the cost category, the ranking was inversed, awarding fewer points to the most expensive aircraft and more points to the less expensive ones. In the stealth category, the aircraft with the smallest radar cross-section (RCS) received the highest points.
1. Sukhoi Su-57 Felon
Ranking the Sukhoi Su-57 as the best fighter jet in the world is a determination that may spark debate, particularly given the advanced capabilities fielded by nations like the United States with aircraft such as the F-22. However, the Su-57 represents a truly formidable design by Russia, scoring exceptionally well in terms of agility, weapons payload, and stealth. Crucially, Russia appears to have successfully integrated advanced technology into an aircraft that is significantly more affordable than other leading advanced fighters. Estimates by sources like Bulgarian Military place the unit cost between $35-$50 million.
| 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 Su-57’s remarkable supermaneuverability is largely attributed to its 3D thrust vectoring nozzles, coupled with a superb thrust-to-weight ratio that allows it to execute incredibly tight turns. While its stealth features may be considered less refined compared to some Western counterparts, it compensates with advanced high-tech sensors, potent aerodynamic performance, and a versatile weapons loadout capable of utilizing both internal bays and external hardpoints.
Russian Su-57 Felon fighter aircraft in a tight turn during flight, showcasing its agility.
2. Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II
Despite the F-35 not securing the top position against its Russian competitor in this specific ranking, its widespread operational deployment is undeniable. With over 700 units currently in active service globally, the F-35 forms the backbone of the United States Air Force and is operated by numerous allied nations, solidifying its status as one of the world best aircraft fighter platforms in terms of global reach.
| 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 of payload | 5 |
| Speed | Mach 1.6 | 0 |
| Popularity | 712 in active service | 4 |
| Total | 28 |
The F-35 boasts superior stealth compared to the Su-57, achieving a low radar cross-section from all angles, reportedly equivalent to that of a golf ball. However, it is not as fast as the Su-57 and lacks the ability to achieve true supercruise (sustaining supersonic speeds without afterburners). Its higher cost, with some variants priced around double that of the reported Su-57 cost, also impacted its score. Nevertheless, as a truly multirole fighter capable of excelling in virtually any combat scenario, the F-35 remains a premier example of the world best aircraft fighter technology available today.
A Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jet standing on a damp runway at sunset, highlighting its modern design.
3. Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon
Emerging as a powerful force is the Chengdu J-20 ‘Mighty Dragon’. As China’s first 5th-generation stealth fighter, it joins an exclusive club as one of only four truly stealth operational fighters worldwide. While evident inspiration likely came from the F-22 and F-35 programs, the J-20 has evolved into a highly capable fighter in its own right, challenging established hierarchies among the world best aircraft fighter.
| 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 designed with an emphasis on long-range operations. While not the fastest aircraft on this list, it can reach and sustain Mach 2 speeds without engaging afterburners, providing true supercruise capability. Although estimates suggest only a few hundred are currently operational, Military Watch reports that production is significantly ramping up, potentially reaching 100-120 aircraft per year – a rate three times higher than any other twin-engine fighter currently being built. These aircraft are exclusively for the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and are not currently exported. The J-20 represents a significant advance in Chinese military aviation, placing it firmly among the world best aircraft fighter designs.
The Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon stealth fighter aircraft in flight, showcasing its distinctive canards and blended wing-body design.
4. Boeing F-15EX Eagle II
When it comes to sheer carrying capacity, no aircraft currently matches the Boeing F-15EX Eagle II. With the ability to carry nearly 30,000 lbs of ordnance, it stands as the most heavily armed fighter jet in the world, earning it the moniker of a “flying bomb truck” and a unique place among the world best aircraft fighter for its specific role.
| 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 is not designed for stealth. Instead, its operational approach relies on its impressive top speed of Mach 2.5, allowing it to rapidly engage targets, deliver its payload, and disengage. Utilizing the Advanced Missile and Bomb Ejector Rack (AMBER) system, it can carry over 20 air-to-air missiles on a single sortie, making it an ideal complementary asset to more expensive stealth aircraft. It is currently the fastest operational fighter jet in the US Air Force, surpassed in speed only by the older, specialized MiG-25 and MiG-31 interceptors. Deliveries are ongoing, with plans for many more units to join the USAF fleet in the coming years. For insights on aircraft designed for carrier operations, consider reading about the best naval fighter aircraft.
A Boeing F-15EX Eagle II fighter jet during flight, showing its large size and multiple external hardpoints.
5. Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor
Some might be surprised to see the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor ranked at number 5 among the world best aircraft fighter. While it represents an incredible engineering achievement, excelling as the most agile and stealthiest fighter jet ever built with an RCS comparable to a marble, certain factors affected its overall score in this specific evaluation.
| 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 |
Although the F-22 excels at disappearing from radar, it carries a relatively modest internal weapons payload compared to others on the list, which reduced its points in that category. It is also currently the most expensive fighter jet in the world to acquire. Despite these factors, the F-22 remains a marvel of modern aerospace technology. It is capable of supercruise at Mach 1.8 and boasts a top speed of Mach 2.25, enabling rapid engagement or disengagement. Production has concluded with 178 aircraft built, but the F-22 continues to be a formidable presence in the skies of 2025 and is often cited when discussing the best fighter aircraft in the world.
The Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor stealth fighter in flight, emphasizing its sleek, radar-reducing design.
6. General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon
The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon holds the distinction of being, by a significant margin, the most widely operated fighter jet globally today. According to the 2025 World Air Forces Directory, over 2,084 units are currently in active service across numerous nations, including substantial fleets within the USAF, Egypt, Israel, Greece, and Turkey. This widespread adoption highlights its enduring design and effectiveness, marking it as a truly significant aircraft among the world best aircraft fighter in terms of accessibility and proven track record.
| 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 |
Although the F-16, nicknamed the “Viper,” traces its origins back to the 1970s, it remains highly relevant due to continuous modernization and upgrade programs. It is a genuinely multirole platform, equally adept at air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions. It is compatible with nearly every weapon system in the US and NATO inventories. The latest Block 70/72 variant represents a 4th generation++ aircraft, incorporating advanced radars, new mission computers, infrared tracking systems, and other significant updates. It is the most affordable jet on this list to procure and has demonstrated its capabilities across multiple conflicts, from Operation Desert Storm to the current situation in Ukraine. Its combination of cost-effectiveness, versatility, and widespread use makes it a key entry when discussing the best fighter aircraft in world.
The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon, the world’s most popular fighter jet, seen here in flight over a mountainous landscape.
7. Sukhoi Su-35
While not a stealth aircraft, the Sukhoi Su-35 remains one of the most formidable 4th-generation fighters currently operating. Its exceptional agility is facilitated by its two-plane thrust vectoring system, a technology unique among operational production aircraft. This feature gives it an edge in close-quarters air combat, a crucial aspect when considering the world best aircraft fighter for dogfighting scenarios.
| 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 |
In a close-in dogfight, the Su-35 is a highly dangerous adversary, capable of out-turning most Western jets. Its design incorporates a large internal fuel load, providing extended combat range, and it is equipped with a powerful passive electronically scanned array (PESA) radar, making it well-suited for both air superiority and long-duration patrol missions. The Su-35 can carry a substantial weapons load exceeding 17,000 lbs. This, combined with its sophisticated electronic warfare systems, infrared search and track (IRST) sensor, and high speed of Mach 2.25, establishes it as a credible asset in both defensive and offensive air operations. With over 100 units in service and exports to countries like China and Egypt, the Su-35 is a significant component of Russia’s tactical air power in 2025.
The Sukhoi Su-35 Flanker-E fighter jet shown in a steep, high-G turn against a clear blue sky, demonstrating its agility.
8. Eurofighter Typhoon
The Eurofighter Typhoon serves as a cornerstone of European air defense capabilities. Originally conceived primarily for air superiority roles, it has successfully evolved into a genuine multirole fighter platform. While it may not claim to be the absolute best in any single performance category, the Typhoon’s strength lies in its balanced competence across all key traits, making it a versatile contender among the world best aircraft fighter.
| 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 |
Designed and initially built towards the end of the 20th century, the Typhoon has benefited from systematic and continuous upgrades over the years. The latest Tranche 5 enhancements include a modernized cockpit featuring large area displays, improved connectivity, and the capability to operate effectively alongside unmanned aerial vehicles (drones). Across its flight envelope, the Typhoon demonstrates exceptional agility. Its advanced avionics suite and sensor fusion capabilities contribute significantly to its survivability in contested airspace. It is also capable of supercruise, achieving Mach 1.5 while fully loaded. With over 500 units in service across multiple European nations and export customers, the Typhoon is a proven and adaptable platform.
A Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jet flying gracefully above the clouds, illustrating its operational environment.
9. Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet
Serving as the primary aerial asset for the United States Navy’s carrier strike groups, the F/A-18 Hornet lineage dates back to 1978. Its most recent evolution, the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, is a significantly enhanced version designed for the demands of 21st-century warfare. The Super Hornet offers greater range, increased weapons payload capacity, and reduced maintenance requirements compared to the earlier Hornet models, solidifying its role as a robust naval contender for the title of world best aircraft fighter from a carrier deck.
| 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 |
Priced around $73 million per unit, the Super Hornet is still among the more expensive fighter jets globally but comes in at about half the cost of an F-22. Its ordnance payload capacity of 17,750 lbs is substantial, and the aircraft was specifically designed for compatibility with a vast array of US and NATO munitions. Although visually similar to the older F/A-18C/D, the Super Hornet is essentially a new aircraft, with approximately 80% of its structure redesigned. The E designation indicates a single-seat variant, while the F denotes a twin-seat version. Both models incorporate folding wings, a critical feature for efficient storage and operation aboard aircraft carriers.
The Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet naval fighter jet executing a tight turn, demonstrating its maneuverability for carrier operations.
10. Dassault Rafale
Dassault’s flagship fighter jet is the Rafale, a name derived from the French word for ‘gust of wind’. This aircraft is often praised for its aerodynamic elegance, characterized by sweeping curves and a sharp nose. However, its performance matches its aesthetic appeal, making it a highly capable combat aircraft and a strong contender in discussions about the world best aircraft fighter, particularly from a European perspective.
| 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 |
The Rafale was designed for “omnirole” capability, an concept that goes beyond traditional multirole. This means the jet can perform multiple mission types simultaneously, rather than merely switching between them. It features advanced avionics and sensor fusion, complemented by one of the most sophisticated electronic warfare suites globally (SPECTRA). While not classified as a fully stealth aircraft like the F-22, it does incorporate stealth design elements to reduce its radar cross-section. The latest F-4 standard includes significant radar and sensor upgrades specifically aimed at detecting stealth aircraft at long ranges, positioning the Rafale as an effective “stealth hunter” in modern airspace.
A Dassault Rafale fighter aircraft flying high above the clouds, illustrating its operational altitude and speed capabilities.
What Comes Next for the World’s Best Aircraft Fighter Technology?
While the current landscape of operational 5th-generation fighter jets is still relatively small, several new and advanced aircraft are poised to join the ranks of the world best aircraft fighter in the coming years. This signals an exciting period of technological advancement in military aviation.
Steady progress is being made on the KAI KF-21 Boramae, South Korea’s first indigenously developed advanced fighter. Six prototypes have been produced, and the final assembly of the first serial production model has commenced. Early specifications indicate a top speed of Mach 1.8 and a payload capacity of up to 17,000 lbs.
The KAI KF-21 Boramae, South Korea’s advanced prototype fighter jet, in flight, showcasing its potential agility.
The KF-21 is often described as a 4.5-generation aircraft, meaning it’s not quite as advanced as the leading 5th-generation designs but incorporates enhanced stealth features and advanced avionics that place it ahead of older 4th-generation platforms like the Typhoon and Rafale. It is anticipated to enter service in 2026.
Meanwhile, Turkey is developing the TAI TF Kaan, though only one prototype currently exists. India is slightly further behind with its Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, which has not yet produced a prototype. In Russia, the Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate light fighter concept was unveiled in 2021 and displayed at Dubai Airshow in 2023. However, development of the Checkmate has reportedly faced delays, partly due to international sanctions. Its original projected entry into service was 2027, but the current status of the project remains unclear.
The Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate light fighter jet prototype displayed at the Dubai Airshow, highlighting its potential future design.
Following closely behind these 5th-generation programs are a group of super-advanced aircraft concepts that will form the basis of the 6th-generation fleet. While none have yet been built, some manufacturers are targeting introduction as early as the 2030s. When these revolutionary aircraft arrive, the landscape of the world best aircraft fighter will undoubtedly undergo an immense transformation, redefining the standards of aerial combat.
