Selecting the greatest fighter jets in the world is never an easy task. Each aircraft is engineered with certain advantages in mind—some are stealth giants, others are speedsters, and some are plain versatile. Something that makes one airplane supreme may be a setback for another. But to find out who the top fighters are in 2025, here is a glimpse at the ten planes that merge technology, prowess, and battle reputation to dominate the skies.
10. Dassault Rafale (France)
The Rafale is the jewel of French aviation—stylish, nimble, and extremely capable. Intended for “omnirole” operations, it can execute air combat, strike, reconnaissance, and even nuclear deterrence in one sortie. Equipped with the latest SPECTRA electronic warfare system and enhancements such as the F-4 standard, it can detect and track stealth targets at remarkable ranges. It is not a true stealth aircraft, but its combination of maneuverability, survivability, and versatility keeps it among the top.
9. Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet (USA)
As the backbone of the US Navy carrier fleet, the Super Hornet provides tried-and-tested performance. An updated version of the original F/A-18, it boasts greater range, payload, and maintainability. With a capability to carry more than 17,000 pounds of weapons and operate efficiently from carriers, it is a reliable multi-mission workhorse. It may not be the stealthiest aircraft in the sky, but its versatility and tough build make it a perennial staple of naval aviation.
8. Eurofighter Typhoon (Europe)
Born from a multinational union, the Typhoon is an icon of European engineering. Originally constructed for air supremacy, it’s come to be a full-fledged multirole aircraft. It’s renowned for its unprecedented agility and can supercruise even when loaded with ordnance. New improvements introduce enhanced sensors, connectivity, and even the capability to operate with drones. Supported by several European air forces, it continues to be a front-line fighter with serious endurance.
7. Sukhoi Su-35 (Russia)
The Su-35 does not emphasize stealth, but its supermaneuverability makes it among the world’s most deadly dogfighters. Twin thrust-vectoring engines enable it to out-turn all but a few competitors, and its massive payload, extended range, and robust radar make it a potent air-superiority weapon. Fitted with sophisticated electronic warfare systems and infrared search equipment, it can destroy or evade threats equally effectively.
6. General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon (USA)
The F-16 is the most numerous fighter in the world, and for a good reason. Since the late 1970s, it has been constantly updated with the latest avionics, sensors, and weapons systems. The newest Block 70/72 variants have sophisticated radars and computing equipment, making it a potent multirole aircraft. Low in cost, battle-hardened, and highly agile, the F-16 is still a force to be considered decades after its introduction.
5. Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor (USA)
In many ways referred to as the most stealthy and responsive fighter ever constructed, the F-22 is still unparalleled in a few respects. The radar cross-section is minuscule, and it can fly supersonic without afterburners. Although its production ended early, the Raptors that remain in use are among the deadliest fighters in the world. Merging stealth, speed, and supermaneuverability, it remains the gold standard for aerial dominance.
4. Boeing F-15EX Eagle II (USA)
The F-15EX is a power- and payload-packed fighter. With the ability to carry almost 30,000 pounds of ordnance—more than 20 of them air-to-air missiles—it also has a scorching top speed of Mach 2.5. Its air-to-air combat record cannot be beaten, and its recent upgrades mean it will be a primary player in the U.S. arsenal for many years.
3. Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon
Designed as a long-range, stealth-capable air superiority fighter, the J-20 is mixing speed, distance, and sophisticated avionics. Its huge internal weapons bays maintain stealth capability while providing it with robust strike capability. With expanded production and continuous enhancements, it’s becoming a serious 5th-generation contender globally.
2. Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II (USA)
The F-35 is intended to be something more than a fighter—it’s the central command node for next-generation combat operations. With stealth in all directions, advanced sensor fusion, and unparalleled data-sharing technology, it serves as the battle network’s brain. Not the fastest, perhaps, but by coordinating operations among air, ground, sea, and space, it’s one of the most powerful jets in the skies.
1. Sukhoi Su-57 Felon (Russia)
The Su-57 merges stealth, maneuverability, and next-generation weapon systems into one vehicle. Its thrust-vectoring engines provide it with remarkable agility, and its sensor package and weapons load make it capable of undertaking any mission. Though its stealth profile is not as polished as some of its Western counterparts, its aerodynamic capabilities and affordability make it a dominant force within any airspace.
The quest for air supremacy never ends, and with new-generation fighters on the way, the battle to control the skies will get even fiercer.