As of 2025, the best fighter jet in service depends on the criteria used for evaluation—stealth, speed, agility, firepower, or advanced avionics. Here are the top contenders:
Type: Stealth multirole fighter
Strengths: Best avionics, networked warfare capabilities, sensor fusion, and versatility (F-35A/B/C variants).
Weaknesses: Not the fastest or most agile, expensive maintenance.
Type: Air superiority stealth fighter
Strengths: Unmatched maneuverability, supercruise (Mach 1.8), stealth, and air-to-air combat supremacy.
Weaknesses: Limited production, no export, high maintenance costs.
Type: Stealth air superiority fighter
Strengths: Long range, stealth design, AESA radar, powerful WS-15 engines (newer versions).
Weaknesses: Less maneuverable than F-22, uncertain avionics and sensor fusion capabilities.
Type: Stealth multirole fighter
Strengths: Supermaneuverability, advanced IRST, high-speed performance.
Weaknesses: Limited stealth compared to F-22/F-35, small production numbers.
Type: 4.5-generation multirole fighter
Strengths: Exceptional dogfighting capabilities, powerful radar, and modular design.
Weaknesses: Lacks stealth, but upgrades (Radar 2, enhanced weapons) improve survivability.
Type: 4.5-generation multirole fighter
Strengths: Excellent agility, carrier-capable (Rafale M), advanced sensors and Spectra EW suite.
Weaknesses: Lacks stealth, but excels in versatility.
For stealth and networked warfare: F-35 Lightning II
For air superiority and dogfighting: F-22 Raptor (if available)
For non-US alternatives: J-20 (China) Su-57 (Russia)
For proven multirole performance: Rafale Typhoon