Russia’s air fighter jets have long been known for raw power, tough design, and overextending the limits of air technology. From Cold War legends to cutting-edge stealth forms, these aircraft have not only outlined the military aviation strategy of Russia but also influenced the balance of power in the world skies. Here’s a reverse-chronological look at the 10 most advanced Russian fighter jets ever made—and the technologies that’ve helped them become legends.
10. Sukhoi Su-30 (1996)
A growth of the mythic Su-27, the twin-seat Su-30 was conceived to operate long-range, multi-role missions. Having a penchant for both air superiority and accurate ground attack, it has become popular worldwide, with India and China operating their upgraded variants. Its integration of high-thrust engines, modern avionics, and wide weapons compatibility has created a highly versatile fighter that bridges the gap between the older fourth-generation fighters and the stealth age.
9. Mikoyan MiG-35 (2019)
Evolved from the MiG-29 airframe, the MiG-35 is a 4++ generation multirole fighter with more powerful engines, upgraded avionics, and increased survivability in modern threat environments. With increased stealth shaping and advanced electronic warfare systems, it offers a budget-friendly solution for air forces looking for near-fifth-generation standards without the high price.
8. Sukhoi Su-34 (2014)
Monickered the “Fullback,” the twin-engine strike fighter was designed for deep penetration bombing. Its side-by-side cockpit configuration makes long flight times more tolerable, and its sophisticated target acquisition systems and large payload capacity enable pinpoint attacks on land and sea targets. A heavy defensive package enables it to survive in highly contested airspace, perfectly in line with Russia’s doctrine of long-range, high-impact.
7. Mikoyan MiG-31 (1981)
The MiG-31 “Foxhound” is among the fastest and most capable interceptors ever produced. Designed to patrol and defend Russia’s immense borders, it can detect and attack multiple targets at great range, even in the worst weather. Updated versions like the MiG-31BM boast improved radars, avionics, and weaponry, keeping this Cold War bruiser current.
6. Sukhoi Su-57 (2020)
As Russia’s first genuine fifth-generation fighter, the Su-57 was aimed at competing with the U.S. F-22 and F-35s. It features stealth shaping, internal weapon bays, advanced sensors, and thrust-vectoring engines for high maneuverability.
With supercruise capability and advanced avionics, it’s designed to excel in both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. Its short operational history and reliability concerns, however, continue to distinguish it from more mature Western designs.
5. Sukhoi Su-35 (2014)
A refined descendant of the Su-27, the Su-35 is a 4++ generation fighter blending blistering speed, advanced avionics, and thrust-vectoring agility. Its radar can track multiple targets at long range, and its weapons loadout makes it formidable in air superiority or strike missions. Its export success has further cemented its status as one of Russia’s top-tier combat jets.
4. Mikoyan MiG-29 (1983)
Developed to match the American F-16, the MiG-29 “Fulcrum” soon became renowned for its maneuverability and sophisticated targeting systems. Capable of landing on unpaved airstrips and equipped with infrared search-and-track capability, it has become one of the most ubiquitous Soviet export fighters. Ongoing upgrades have maintained it as a relevant aircraft for decades since its first appearance.
3. Sukhoi Su-27 (1985)
The Su-27 “Flanker” was the Soviet response to the U.S. F-15—a long-range, highly maneuverable, and well-armed air superiority fighter. Equipped with large engines, great aerodynamics, and a powerful missile load, it is the basis for a line of advanced variants, including the Su-30, Su-33, and Su-35.
2. Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-25 (1970)
The MiG-25 “Foxbat” was designed for speed, outpacing even the quickest reconnaissance planes of its time. With a top speed over Mach 3 and an operational altitude above 80,000 feet, it compelled Western military forces to reconsider high-speed air strategy. Though heavy and less maneuverable, its sheer performance established it as a legend among interceptors.
1. Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-21 (1959)
Arguably the most renowned Russian fighter of all time, the MiG-21 “Fishbed” went on to become the world’s most-built supersonic fighter. Its delta wings, 2 Mach speed, and easy repairability made it a mainstay of air forces across the globe. It saw service from Vietnam’s skies to the Middle East, and its ability was tested in innumerable conflicts—and amazingly, many of them remain in commission to this day.
Across decades, Russian fighter design has balanced capability, toughness, and mass production. While Western jets often prioritize cutting-edge tech with high costs, Russia’s approach has favored building large numbers of rugged, versatile aircraft that can perform in varied and harsh conditions.
Even differences in engine philosophy—favoring greater endurance over extreme performance—reflect this mindset.
From the humble yet lethal MiG-21 to the stealth-oriented Su-57, these aircraft have not only defined Russia’s defense but also impacted air combat strategy globally.