Fighter jets have come a long way over the years! The newest generation – called fifth generation – represents the cutting edge in jet technology. They are specifically designed to be effective in modern digital battlefields, with advanced features like fly-by-wire controls. These jets stand out for their strategic advantages compared to older models – they have very sophisticated electronics, stealth capabilities that make them hard to detect, and unmatched maneuverability and speed.
Achieving “invisibility” from enemy detection is a major goal for engineers when designing stealth jets. But it’s an incredibly challenging one! Stealth technology requires carefully integrating many complex elements like the overall shape, smooth surfaces, and electronic signal blocking. Each new jet needs its own customized blend of stealth methods, which shows how complicated these aircraft are to develop. Pursuing stealth means thoughtfully designing every aspect of the jet, from its internal structure to its exterior features. And special radars have to be built just to detect them! Because of how demanding and expensive it is to make stealth jets, only a handful of countries have committed to building fifth generation fighters.
America’s F-35 Lightning II
One of the leaders in advanced jets is Lockheed Martin, which developed America’s second fifth-gen fighter – the F-35 Lightning II. This impressive aircraft comes in 3 different versions tailored for the Marines, Air Force, and Navy. The F-35B for the Marines can take off in a short space and even land vertically! It entered service in 2015. The Air Force’s F-35A model became operational the next year in 2016. And the Navy’s carrier-based F-35C was ready for service in 2019.
The F-35 is designed as a versatile multi-role jet for ground attack missions, air combat, and networked operations. It has already patrolled Europe and the Pacific, and seen combat in the Middle East – Israel was the first country to use it operationally. Around 450 F-35s are currently in service for the US military. The plan is to acquire over 2,500 more over the next few decades! This highlights the major investment in these cutting-edge aircraft – operating and maintaining the F-35 fleet over its lifetime is projected to cost over $1.7 trillion.
China’s J-20
China’s advanced fifth-gen jet is the Chengdu J-20, which entered active service in 2017. Its first test flight was in 2011. The J-20 is now smoothly integrated into China’s sizable fleet of around 1,900 fighter jets, according to the 2023 Pentagon report on Chinese military capabilities. Over 200 J-20s are already in production, with upgrades coming. One notable upgrade is China’s development of the homemade WS-15 engine, specifically designed for the J-20. It will enable supersonic speed without using fuel-gulping afterburners, improving stealth. While engine development has faced some challenges, China continues advancing the J-20 as a top-tier fighter by using a mix of older domestic engines and Russian imports as needed.
Russia’s Su-57
Russia’s entry in fifth-gen fighters is the Sukhoi Su-57. It’s described by Russian Defense Export as having a low radar signature, the ability to sustain supersonic cruise speeds, and versatile employment options for tactical missions. After its combat debut over Syria in 2018, the Su-57 has seen additional operational use, including in the Ukraine conflict. This demonstrates Russia’s capabilities in developing modern and lethal jet fighters.
What Makes Fifth-Gen Fighters Unique?
To sum up, the NATO-affiliated Joint Air Power Competence Centre highlights 5 key attributes of fifth-generation jets that make them so effective, yet difficult to engineer:
- Stealth technologies that reduce detection across multiple radar frequencies
- Self-protection systems and electronic countermeasures
- Advanced jamming against enemy radars
- Extensive integration of avionics and sensory systems
- And of course, the sheer speed, power, and maneuverability required for dominance in air combat
The combination of these capabilities represents a major leap in technology from preceding fourth-generation jets! Fifth-gen fighters clearly demonstrate how far aviation technology has progressed.
