Defining the best fighter aircraft of all time is a complex task, as these machines are designed for specific roles and excel in different areas. However, by evaluating the capabilities of currently operational aircraft, we can identify the leading contenders that push the boundaries of aerial combat in 2025 and stand among the most formidable ever built.
The performance of some of the best fighter jets within their domains is nothing short of astounding. Drawing upon current capabilities and expert analysis, this list presents 10 of the very best operational fighter aircraft today. Experimental aircraft, prototypes, and those still under development have not been considered for this ranking, focusing only on those actively serving air forces worldwide. This analysis provides insight into which aircraft are shaping the future of air warfare and challenging perceptions of the Top 10 Fighter Aircraft Of All Time based on present-day performance.
The 10 Best Operational Fighter Jets in 2025
Leading the charge in 2025 is Russia’s flagship aircraft, the Su-57 Felon. It garnered high marks for its agility and stealth capabilities, and with an estimated unit cost of just $50 million, it represents one of the most cost-effective advanced fighters available to air forces globally.
In the second position, we find the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II. While perhaps not matching the Su-57 in sheer agility or the F-15EX in armament, its comprehensive performance across various roles and true multirole functionality distinguish it. Its stealth features are exceptional, surpassed only by the more expensive F-22.
Claiming the bronze spot is China’s first domestically developed 5th-generation fighter jet, the Chengdu J-20 ‘Mighty Dragon’. As one of only four operational stealth fighters currently in service worldwide, the J-20 scores highly for its substantial 24,000 lb internal weapons payload, which significantly enhances its stealth profile.
Russian Sukhoi Su-57 Felon fighter jet in flight, rated among the top 10 fighter aircraft
Below is a table listing the top 10 best operational fighter jets in 2025, followed by a closer look at each aircraft and what makes it stand out.
The Best Operational Fighter Jets: The Complete List (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 |
Scoring Methodology for ‘Best’ Fighter Jets
To provide an all-round assessment of these fighter jets’ capabilities, a scoring system was used based on various categories. These include cost, stealth characteristics, agility, weapons payload capacity, maximum speed, and global operational usage (popularity).
Points were allocated based on the aircraft’s ranking within a top 10 list for each specific characteristic. For most categories, the aircraft ranked number 1 received 10 points, decreasing down to one point for the 10th-ranked jet. Aircraft outside the top 10 in a specific characteristic received zero points for that category.
For the ‘Cost’ category, the ranking was inverted, with the least expensive aircraft receiving the highest points and the most expensive receiving the fewest. For ‘Stealth’, aircraft with the smallest radar cross-section (RCS) were awarded the most points.
1. Sukhoi Su-57 Felon
Sukhoi Su-57 Felon fighter aircraft performing a tight turn, showcasing its 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 of payload | 8 |
| Speed | Mach 2 | 1 |
| Popularity | 22 in service | 0 |
| Total | 35 |
Ranking the Sukhoi Su-57 as the best fighter jet in the world for 2025 might spark debate, especially given the advanced fighters operated by the USA, such as the F-22.
However, Russia has indeed developed a highly capable aircraft in the Su-57, which scores strongly in agility, weapons payload, and stealth. Notably, this advanced technology is integrated into an aircraft significantly less expensive than other leading fighters. Estimates suggest the cost per unit is around $35-$50 million, according to Bulgarian Military.
The remarkable supermaneuverability of the Su-57 is achieved through its 3D thrust vectoring nozzles, complemented by an excellent thrust-to-weight ratio that allows for incredibly tight turns. While its stealth profile may not be as refined as some Western counterparts, it compensates with sophisticated sensors, raw aerodynamic performance, and a versatile armament capability, utilizing both internal and external weapon configurations. Its combination of features makes it a top contender among the Top 10 Fighter Aircraft Of All Time based on modern metrics.
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 (m²) 0.0015 | 9 |
| Weapons | 18,000 lbs of payload | 5 |
| Speed | Mach 1.6 | 0 |
| Popularity | 712 in active service | 4 |
| Total | 28 |
While the US F-35 fighter aircraft didn’t secure the top spot over its Russian competitor, its widespread operational use is noteworthy. With over 700 units currently in active service, the F-35 forms a key part of the US Air Force’s capabilities and is gaining prominence in allied forces.
It boasts superior stealth compared to the Su-57, achieving all-aspect stealth with a radar cross-section equivalent to a golf ball. However, its top speed is lower than the Su-57, and it lacks true supercruise ability (maintaining supersonic speed without afterburners).
The F-35 lost points primarily due to its higher cost, with some variants approximately double the reported price of the Su-57. Nevertheless, as a truly multirole fighter jet capable of excelling in a wide range of operational scenarios, the F-35 remains one of the best fighter jets in the world today, a significant entry in any discussion about the top 10 fighter aircraft of all time.
3. Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon
Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon stealth fighter aircraft in flight
| J-20 Mighty Dragon | ||
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Entering the list strongly is the Chengdu J-20 ‘Mighty Dragon’, China’s inaugural 5th-generation stealth fighter. It is one of only four operational stealth fighter jets currently flying. While showing influences from the F-22 and F-35, it has developed into a formidable aircraft with distinct capabilities.
The J-20 was designed with long-range missions in mind. While not the fastest jet on this list, it can reach Mach 2 and sustain supersonic speeds without using afterburners, possessing true supercruise capability.
Though currently estimated at around 195 operational units, Military Watch reports that its production rate is exceptionally high for a twin-engine fighter, potentially between 100 and 120 aircraft annually, all designated for the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). This rapid deployment cements its place among the top contemporary fighter aircraft.
4. Boeing F-15EX Eagle II
Boeing F-15EX Eagle II fighter aircraft in flight, known for its high weapons payload
| Boeing F-15EX Eagle II | ||
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
When it comes to raw weapons carrying capacity, the F-15EX Eagle II is unmatched. This aircraft can carry almost 30,000 lbs of ordnance, effectively making it the most heavily armed fighter jet currently operational.
Stealth is not its primary feature, and it doesn’t need to be. Instead of relying on concealment, its maximum speed of Mach 2.5 allows it to rapidly engage, deliver its payload, and exit the area. It can carry over 20 air-to-air missiles using the Advanced Missile and Bomb Ejector Rack (AMBER) system, making it an ideal complement or escort for stealth platforms.
The F-15EX is currently the fastest operational fighter jet in the US Air Force, only exceeded historically by the MiG-25 and MiG-31. As of late 2024/early 2025, only a handful have been delivered, with more expected to join the USAF fleet in the coming years. Its unparalleled firepower warrants its inclusion in any list of top fighter aircraft.
5. Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor
Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor stealth fighter aircraft in flight
| 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 |
Some readers might be surprised to see the F-22 Raptor at number 5, but its ranking is influenced by specific metrics. This engineering marvel represents the pinnacle of air superiority design, making it the most agile and stealthiest fighter jet in the world, with an RCS comparable to a marble.
However, despite its ability to disappear, the F-22 has a relatively low weapons payload compared to others on this list, which impacts its overall score. It is also the most expensive fighter jet ever built, with a unit cost exceeding $140 million (and estimated build costs closer to $300 million per aircraft).
Despite these factors, the F-22 is a triumph of modern aerospace technology. Beyond its advanced stealth, it can supercruise at Mach 1.8 and reach a top speed of Mach 2.25, allowing for rapid engagement or disengagement. Production has ceased, with only 178 aircraft built, but the F-22 remains a formidable presence in the skies of 2025, undoubtedly one of the most significant fighter aircraft developed to date.
6. General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon
General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon, the world’s most widely used fighter aircraft, 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 of payload | 0 |
| Speed | Mach 2 | 1 |
| Popularity | 2,084 in active service | 10 |
| Total | 21 |
The F-16 Fighting Falcon stands out as the most widely operated fighter jet globally. As of the 2025 World Air Forces Directory, over 2,000 units are operational across numerous countries, including significant fleets in the USAF, Egypt, Israel, Greece, and Turkey.
Despite its origins in the 1970s, the ‘Viper’ remains highly relevant due to continuous upgrades. It functions as a true multirole aircraft, proficient in air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance, and is compatible with nearly all US and NATO standard weaponry.
The latest Block 70/72 variants represent a 4.5-generation standard, featuring advanced radars, mission computers, infrared tracking, and other modern systems. It is the most affordable aircraft on this list to acquire and has demonstrated its effectiveness across numerous conflicts, from Operation Desert Storm to ongoing operations. Its longevity and adaptability make it a strong contender in any list, including discussions around the top 10 fighter aircraft of all time.
7. Sukhoi Su-35
Russian Sukhoi Su-35 fighter aircraft performing a steep turn against a blue sky
| 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 |
While not a stealth aircraft, the Sukhoi Su-35 remains a highly capable 4th-generation fighter. Its exceptional agility is facilitated by two-plane thrust vectoring, a technology uniquely implemented in a production aircraft.
In close-range dogfights, the Su-35 is a formidable adversary, capable of out-turning most Western jets. Combined with a large internal fuel capacity, long combat range, and a powerful passive electronically scanned array (PESA) radar, it is well-suited for both air superiority roles and extended patrols.
The Su-35 carries a substantial weapons load exceeding 17,000 lbs. This, along with its electronic warfare systems, infrared search and track (IRST) sensor, and high speed of Mach 2.25, makes it a credible force in both defensive and offensive missions. With over 100 units in service and exports to nations like China and Egypt, the Su-35 is a vital element of Russia’s tactical airpower in 2025. Russian Russian WW2 fighter aircraft paved the way, but the Su-35 represents the modern evolution of their air combat capabilities.
8. Eurofighter Typhoon
Eurofighter Typhoon multirole 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 of payload | 6 |
| Speed | Mach 2 | 1 |
| Popularity | 533 in service | 3 |
| Total | 19 |
The Eurofighter Typhoon serves as a crucial component of European air power. Initially designed for air superiority, it has been developed into a proficient multirole fighter. While it may not be the absolute best in any single performance category, it offers a high level of competence across the board without significant compromises.
Developed near the end of the 20th century, the Typhoon has undergone consistent upgrades over the years. The latest Tranche 5 enhancements include a revamped cockpit with large area displays, improved connectivity, and the capability to operate alongside unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The Typhoon demonstrates exceptional agility across its flight envelope. Its sophisticated avionics and sensor suite enhance its survivability. It is also capable of supercruising at Mach 1.5 even when fully loaded. Its continuous evolution keeps it competitive among contemporary fighter aircraft.
9. Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet
Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighter aircraft performing 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 of payload | 3 |
| Speed | Mach 1.8 | 0 |
| Popularity | 827 in service | 6 |
| Total | 18 |
Serving as the mainstay of the US Navy’s carrier air wings, the F/A-18 has been in operation since 1978 in various forms. The most recent iteration, the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, is a significantly modernized version designed for 21st-century naval aviation, offering increased range, payload, and reduced maintenance needs compared to the original Hornet. This aircraft represents what is the Navy’s primary fighter aircraft for carrier operations.
Priced around $73 million, it is still one of the more expensive fighter jets but significantly less costly than an F-22. Its ordnance capacity of 17,750 lbs is substantial, and it is designed for compatibility with a vast array of US and NATO munitions.
Despite its similar appearance to the F/A-18C/D, the Super Hornet is essentially a new design, with approximately 80% of its structure redesigned. The E/F designations denote single-seat and twin-seat configurations, respectively. All variants feature folding wings, essential for efficient operation from aircraft carriers.
10. Dassault Rafale
Dassault Rafale omnirole fighter aircraft 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 of payload | 7 |
| Speed | Mach 1.8 | 0 |
| Popularity | 299 in service | 0 |
| Total | 16 |
Dassault’s premier fighter jet, the Rafale (French for ‘gust of wind’), combines elegant design with deadly capability. Its sleek form and pointed nose give it a distinctive aesthetic.
The Rafale is built for ‘omnirole’ capability, extending beyond standard multirole by allowing the aircraft to perform multiple mission types simultaneously rather than switching between them. It features advanced avionics, sensor fusion, and one of the world’s top electronic warfare suites, SPECTRA, which also aids in detection of potential threats to the aircraft and acts as an air defence system in fighter aircraft.
While not a fully stealth aircraft like the F-22, the Rafale incorporates stealth design elements to reduce its radar cross-section. The latest F-4 standard includes radar and sensor upgrades specifically designed to detect stealth aircraft at long range, making it a highly effective hunter of low-observable targets. With increasing exports, including to nations like India, the Rafale is becoming a significant player globally, adding to the diversity of fighter aircraft in the Indian Air Force and other operators.
What’s Next for Fighter Aircraft Development?
While this list highlights the best operational fighter jets in 2025, the landscape of aerial combat is continuously evolving with new aircraft under development that could challenge the current rankings and reshape future discussions about the top 10 fighter aircraft of all time.
Progress is being made on the KAI KF-21 Boramae, South Korea’s first domestically produced advanced fighter. Six prototypes have been completed, and the first production model is reportedly in final assembly. Early specifications indicate a top speed of Mach 1.8 and capacity for up to 17,000 lbs of payload.
KAI KF-21 Boramae prototype, an advanced fighter aircraft under development
Described as a 4.5-generation aircraft, the KF-21 isn’t classified as a full 5th-generation stealth fighter but boasts improved stealth features and advanced avionics that position it ahead of many current 4th-generation platforms like the Typhoon and Rafale. It is anticipated to enter service in 2026.
Turkey is also developing its TAI TF Kaan, though currently, only one prototype exists. India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program is slightly behind, with no prototype built yet.
In Russia, the Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate light fighter prototype was unveiled but faced development delays due to sanctions. Its original target service entry was 2027, but current progress is less clear.
Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate light fighter jet prototype displayed at Dubai Airshow
Following these 5th-generation efforts are the upcoming 6th-generation aircraft. While none have yet been built, manufacturers aim for introduction in the early 2030s. Their arrival is poised to dramatically transform the world of fighter jets, introducing capabilities that will undoubtedly influence future evaluations of the greatest fighter aircraft ever built.
