best fighter jets of 2026

The F-15EX Eagle II is an advanced version of the legendary F-15, with deliveries to the U.S. ramping up in 2025 and 2026. It is the heaviest and longest-range fighter jet in production in the Western world, featuring a more powerful radar, modernized avionics, and a capacity for up to 23 missiles.

The Dassault Rafale is a French multirole fighter jet in service since 2001, which remains a highly valued option due to its balance of performance, attack capability, and adaptability. India, for example, is in the process of acquiring 114 new Rafale fighters by 2026, underscoring its continued relevance.

The Mikoyan MiG-35, in service since 2019, is a 4++ generation multirole fighter derived from the MiG-29. It incorporates advanced avionics, an AESA radar, and increased weapons capacity, offering a combination of advanced capabilities at a potentially lower operating cost than fifth-generation fighters.

The E/F version of the Saab Gripen, in service since 2019, is a light and agile fighter jet, valued for its low operating costs, ease of maintenance, and ability to operate from short runways. It represents a technological leap and strategic autonomy for countries like Brazil, which operates the version with the Meteor missile.

The F-35 is a fifth-generation multirole fighter with exceptional stealth, sensor fusion capabilities, and advanced electronic warfare capabilities. It is considered one of the most advanced and powerful fighter jets in the world, with ongoing deliveries and upgrades, such as the one to Germany in 2026.

Although no longer in production, the F-22 Raptor remains a critical asset and is widely considered the most advanced air superiority fighter in the world. Its combination of stealth, supersonic speed, and supermaneuverability keeps it a lethal war machine in 2026.

The Sukhoi Su-57, known as the Felon, is Russia's fifth-generation stealth fighter, in service since 2020. It combines stealth with supermaneuverability, making it one of the most powerful and advanced combat aircraft in the world, with countries like Algeria already operating them.

The Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon is China's fifth-generation stealth fighter, in service since 2017. It stands out for its optimized stealth and its ability to carry long-range missiles, making it one of the most lethal war machines on the planet.

The Eurofighter Typhoon in its Tranche 4 version is in production, with new deliveries planned for early 2026. It is considered the best fourth-generation plus fighter, distinguished by its more powerful radar, excellent cyber capabilities, and agility in close combat.

The Sukhoi Su-35, in service since 2014, is a 4++ generation air superiority fighter with super-maneuverability, a powerful radar, and a large weapons payload. Its formidable pure flight performance keeps it a critical defense asset in 2026.

The Boeing F-47 is the US's new sixth-generation fighter jet, expected by the middle of the decade, with Boeing awarded the development contract. Described as 'the most advanced, capable, and lethal ever built,' it is designed to change air warfare, offering greater range, advanced stealth, and the ability to operate with unmanned aerial vehicles.

Although a bomber, the B-21 Raider is a key component of the US sixth-generation air power strategy. It had its first flight in 2023 and is expected to be operational by the middle of the decade, serving as a critical deterrent with armament that includes nuclear weapons.

The FCAS is the ambitious European project for the next generation of fighter jets, a 'system of systems' that includes a sixth-generation fighter, drones, a combat cloud, and low-observable technology. Although the first operational platform is expected by 2040, its development and current challenges make it relevant to the 2026 context.