Establishing which are the Top 10 Fighter Aircraft in the world is a complex undertaking. These advanced machines are engineered for diverse roles and missions, often excelling in one specific area while making necessary compromises in others.
Nevertheless, the performance capabilities demonstrated by some of the best fighter jets within their operational domains are truly remarkable. Based on a thorough review of the current operational fighter jet landscape, AeroTime has compiled a list of the ten most outstanding aircraft in service in 2025. This list focuses exclusively on aircraft that are actively operational, excluding experimental designs, prototypes, or jets still under development.
Ranking the Elite: The Best Fighter Jets in 2025
Topping the list of the best fighter aircraft in the world for 2025 is Russia’s premier combat jet, the Sukhoi Su-57. This aircraft achieved high scores for both its agility and stealth characteristics. Furthermore, with an estimated unit cost of around $50 million, it stands out as one of the most cost-effective advanced fighter jets available to global air forces. For a look into historical aircraft types, explore our article on small fighter aircraft.
Russian Sukhoi Su-57 Felon fighter aircraft in flight, ranked as the top jet in 2025.
Securing 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 massive weapons carrying capacity of the F-15EX, its exceptional all-around performance and genuine multirole capabilities distinguish it significantly from many competitors. Its stealth features are particularly noteworthy, surpassed only by the more expensive F-22 Raptor.
In third place is China’s domestically developed 5th-generation fighter jet, the Chengdu J-20 ‘Mighty Dragon’. As one of only four operational stealth fighters globally today, the J-20 earns high marks for its substantial 24,000 lb weapons payload, a significant portion of which is carried internally, contributing to its impressive stealth profile.
China’s Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon stealth fighter jet flying.
Below is the complete table detailing the Top 10 Fighter Aircraft for 2025. Read on for a more in-depth look at each jet’s capabilities and why it made the list.
The Top 10 Fighter Aircraft: The Complete List
| Aircraft | Key Strengths |
|---|---|
| Sukhoi Su-57 Felon | Most agile fighter jet |
| Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II | Most capable multirole aircraft |
| Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon | Stealthy, heavily armed, multirole |
| Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor | Stealthiest and most expensive fighter jet |
| Boeing F-15EX Eagle II | Most heavily armed fighter jet |
| General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon | Most widely used fighter jet |
| Sukhoi Su-35 | Incredible dogfighter |
| Eurofighter Typhoon | Agile and capable multirole aircraft |
| Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet | Effective, versatile, and tough |
| Dassault Rafale | Agile, heavily armed, and expensive fighter |
Understanding the Scoring Methodology
To provide a comprehensive evaluation of these fighter aircraft, a scoring system was utilized based on several key categories: unit cost, stealth capabilities, agility, maximum weapons payload, speed, and global popularity (number in active service).
Points were assigned based on an aircraft’s ranking within the top 10 for each specific characteristic. For most categories, the jet ranked number one received 10 points, decreasing sequentially to one point for the tenth-ranked jet. Aircraft outside the top 10 in a specific characteristic received zero points.
An exception was made for the cost category, where the scoring was inverted; less expensive aircraft received more points. For stealth, the lowest Radar Cross Section (RCS) value earned the most points.
The Top 10 Fighter Aircraft Detailed
1. Sukhoi Su-57 Felon
The Sukhoi Su-57 Felon fighter jet executing a sharp turn, recognized as the top fighter in 2025.
| 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 world’s best fighter jet for 2025 is likely to spark debate, especially given the United States’ arsenal of highly advanced fighters like the F-22. However, Russia has engineered a truly formidable aircraft in the Su-57. It consistently ranks high in agility, weapons capacity, and stealth. Crucially, this advanced technology is integrated into a platform estimated to cost significantly less than other cutting-edge fighters, with figures from $35-$50 million per unit reported by Bulgarian Military.
The Su-57 achieves its remarkable supermaneuverability through 3D thrust vectoring nozzles, coupled with an excellent thrust-to-weight ratio that allows it to execute extremely tight turns. While its stealth design may be less refined compared to Western counterparts, it compensates with advanced sensors, superior aerodynamic performance, and a flexible mix of internal and external weapon configurations.
2. Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II
The Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jet on a wet runway at dusk, one of the world’s leading fighters.
| 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 payload | 5 |
| Speed | Mach 1.6 | 0 |
| Popularity | 712 in service | 4 |
| Total | 28 |
Although the F-35 didn’t claim the top spot from its Russian rival, its widespread operational use is a critical factor. With over 700 aircraft currently in active service, the F-35 serves as a foundational element of the US Air Force and numerous allied air arms.
It boasts superior stealth capabilities compared to the Su-57, designed to be stealthy from all angles, not just the front. Its Radar Cross Section (RCS) is remarkably small, often compared to that of a golf ball. However, it does not match the top speed of the Su-57 and lacks true supercruise capability (sustaining supersonic speeds without afterburners).
The F-35 lost points primarily due to its higher cost, with some variants priced at roughly double the reported cost of the Su-57. Despite this, its status as a true multirole fighter capable of excelling in nearly any combat scenario solidifies its position as one of the very best fighter aircraft available today.
3. Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon
The Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon fighter jet in flight.
| 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 |
Arriving at number three is China’s impressive ‘Mighty Dragon’, the Chengdu J-20. This aircraft represents China’s first entry into 5th-generation stealth fighters and is one of only a handful of genuinely stealth-capable operational jets globally. While clearly influenced by the design principles seen in the F-22 and F-35, the J-20 has developed into a potent fighter in its own right.
The J-20 was designed with long-range operational requirements in mind. While not the fastest jet on this list, it can achieve speeds up to Mach 2 and maintain supersonic flight without relying on afterburners, demonstrating true supercruise capabilities.
Although the current operational fleet is estimated to be around a couple of hundred aircraft, Military Watch indicates that production is occurring at an exceptionally high rate—potentially over 100-120 aircraft annually, significantly exceeding the production scale of other twin-engine fighters. These aircraft are exclusively for the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and are not currently offered for export.
4. Boeing F-15EX Eagle II
The Boeing F-15EX Eagle II fighter jet 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 payload | 10 |
| Speed | Mach 2.5 | 8 |
| Popularity | 8 in service | 0 |
| Total | 24 |
When it comes to sheer weapons-carrying capacity, the F-15EX stands unparalleled. This aircraft can haul nearly 30,000 lbs of ordnance, earning it the moniker of the most heavily armed fighter jet in the world.
Stealth is not a primary characteristic of the F-15EX, nor is it intended to be. Rather than relying on clandestine approaches, its remarkable top speed of Mach 2.5 allows it to rapidly engage, strike targets, and disengage. Equipped with the Advanced Missile and Bomb Ejector Rack (AMBER) system, it can carry upwards of 20 air-to-air missiles on a single mission, making it an ideal companion or escort for more expensive stealth platforms. It’s worth noting the historical context of fighter development, including early designs like wwii japanese fighter aircraft.
The F-15EX holds the title of the fastest operational fighter jet in the US Air Force and one of the fastest in the world, surpassed only by the aging MiG-25 and MiG-31. As of mid-2024, only eight units have been delivered, with the first arriving in June 2024 for the Oregon Air National Guard. Janes reports that more are expected to join the USAF fleet in the coming years, with tail numbers 9, 10, and 11 nearing delivery.
5. Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor
The F-22 Raptor fighter jet, scoring high for agility and stealth but impacted by its high cost and program end.
| 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 observers might be surprised to find the F-22 ranked lower on this list, but several factors contributed to its score. This engineering marvel stands as the most agile and stealthiest fighter jet ever built, with an RCS often compared to that of a marble.
However, despite its unparalleled ability to evade detection, the F-22 has a comparatively modest weapons payload, which impacted its overall score. It is also the most expensive fighter jet globally, with a unit cost exceeding $140 million (and estimated build costs closer to $300 million).
Nevertheless, the F-22 remains a pinnacle of modern aviation technology. Beyond its advanced stealth, it is capable of supercruising at Mach 1.8 and reaching a top speed of Mach 2.25, allowing for rapid engagement or disengagement. Production of the F-22 program has concluded, with a total of 178 aircraft built. Despite this limited number, it continues to be a formidable aerial combat platform in 2025.
6. General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon
The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jet in flight over terrain, the most widely operated fighter globally.
| 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 service | 10 |
| Total | 21 |
The F-16 Fighting Falcon, often referred to as the ‘Viper’, is by far the most widely operated fighter jet in the world today. According to the 2025 World Air Forces Directory, an astounding 2,084 units are currently in active service across numerous nations, including over 700 in the USAF and significant fleets in countries like Egypt, Israel, Greece, and Turkey.
Although the F-16’s origins trace back to the 1970s, continuous upgrades have ensured its continued relevance in modern air combat. It is a highly versatile multirole aircraft, equally adept at air-to-air engagements as it is at reconnaissance missions. It supports virtually every weapon system in the US and NATO inventories. Exploring the history of combat aircraft reveals fascinating designs, including those like ww2 italian fighter aircraft from earlier conflicts.
The latest variant, the F-16 Block 70/72, represents a significant upgrade to a 4th generation++ standard, featuring new radar systems, mission computers, infrared tracking, and other enhancements. It is the most affordable aircraft on this list to acquire and has a proven track record in various conflicts, from Operation Desert Storm to the ongoing situation in Ukraine.
7. Sukhoi Su-35
The Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jet in a steep turn against a clear 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 payload | 2 |
| Speed | Mach 2.25 | 2 |
| Popularity | 118+ in service | 0 |
| Total | 19 |
While the Sukhoi Su-35 does not incorporate stealth technology, it remains one of the world’s most formidable 4th-generation fighters. Its exceptional agility is facilitated by its unique two-plane thrust vectoring system, a technology found in no other production aircraft.
In close-quarters combat, the Su-35 is an extremely dangerous adversary, 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 optimized for both air superiority roles and long-duration patrol missions.
The Su-35 can carry a substantial weapons load of over 17,000 lbs. This, along with advanced electronic warfare suites, an infrared search and track (IRST) sensor, and a 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 is a significant component of Russia’s tactical airpower in 2025.
8. Eurofighter Typhoon
The Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jet, a highly capable aircraft.
| 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, a cornerstone of European air defense, was initially conceived as an air superiority fighter but has successfully evolved into a true multirole platform. While it may not be the absolute best in any single category, its strength lies in performing all essential functions with a high level of competence rather than sacrificing one capability for another.
Designed and initially built at the close of the 20th century, the Typhoon has benefited from continuous upgrades over its service life. The most recent Tranche 5 enhancements include a redesigned cockpit featuring large area displays, improved connectivity, and the capability to operate effectively alongside unmanned aerial vehicles (drones).
Across its entire performance envelope, the Typhoon exhibits exceptional agility. Its sophisticated avionics and sensor suite significantly contribute to its survivability on the modern battlefield. It is also capable of supercruising at Mach 1.5 while carrying a full loadout.
9. Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet
The Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighter jet 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 payload | 3 |
| Speed | Mach 1.8 | 0 |
| Popularity | 827 in service | 6 |
| Total | 18 |
Serving as the primary strike fighter for the U.S. Navy’s carrier air wings, the F/A-18 has been in service in various forms since 1978. Its latest iteration, the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, is a significantly enhanced version designed for 21st-century operations. It offers increased range, a larger weapons payload, and reduced maintenance requirements compared to the original Hornet models.
With a price tag around $73 million, it remains one of the more expensive fighter jets globally, though it costs roughly half the price of an F-22 Raptor. Its ordnance payload of 17,750 lbs is impressive, and the aircraft is 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 is essentially a new aircraft, with approximately 80% of its airframe redesigned. The E/F designation indicates whether it is a single-seater (E) or a twin-seater (F), but all variants feature folding wings specifically designed for efficient storage and operation aboard aircraft carriers.
10. Dassault Rafale
A Dassault Rafale 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’s premier fighter jet is the Rafale, a name meaning ‘gust of wind’ in French. The aircraft is celebrated for its elegant design, featuring flowing curves and a distinct pointed nose. Beyond its aesthetics, it is an exceptionally capable combat platform.
The Rafale is built for ‘omnirole’ capability, a step beyond traditional multirole. This means the jet is designed to perform multiple mission types simultaneously rather than simply switching between them. It incorporates advanced avionics and sensor fusion, alongside one of the world’s most sophisticated electronic warfare suites (SPECTRA).
While not classified as fully stealth like the F-22, it does incorporate design elements intended to reduce its radar cross section (RCS). The most recent standard, the F-4, includes radar and sensor enhancements specifically aimed at detecting stealth aircraft at long ranges, positioning the Rafale as a highly effective ‘hunter’ of low-observable threats.
The Horizon of Airpower: What’s Coming Next?
While the current landscape of the top 10 fighter aircraft is dominated by a handful of true 5th-generation jets, several new and highly advanced platforms are poised to enter service and challenge the existing hierarchy in the coming years. The continuous evolution of combat aircraft builds upon a rich history, including developments seen in early designs like wwii japanese fighter aircraft.
Making promising progress is the KAI KF-21 Boramae, South Korea’s first domestically produced advanced fighter jet. Six prototypes have been successfully produced, and the final assembly for the first serial production model has commenced. Initial reports indicate the KF-21 will achieve a top speed of Mach 1.8 and carry up to 17,000 lbs of payload.
The KF-21 Boramae fighter jet in flight, representing a new generation of aircraft.
The KF-21 is often described as a 4.5-generation aircraft, meaning it is not quite as advanced in all respects as the leading 5th-generation jets, but its enhanced stealth capabilities and advanced avionics position it ahead of many current 4th-generation platforms like the Typhoon and Rafale. It is anticipated to enter operational service in 2026.
Turkey is actively developing the TAI TF Kaan, though only one prototype exists currently. India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program is slightly further behind, with no prototype having been built yet.
In Russia, the Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate light fighter was publicly displayed at MAKS in 2021 and the Dubai Airshow in 2023. However, its development timeline has reportedly faced delays, partly due to international sanctions. The initial target for entry into service was 2027, but the current status and progress of the project remain somewhat unclear.
The Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate light fighter jet showcased at the Dubai Airshow.
Following closely on the heels of these 5th-generation developments is a wave of super-advanced aircraft that are expected to constitute the 6th-generation fleet. None of these ambitious designs have yet been built, but some manufacturers are aiming for introduction in the early 2030s. When these revolutionary aircraft eventually arrive, the competitive landscape of the world’s best fighter aircraft is certain to undergo profound changes.
