Generations of jet fighter

Generations of jet fighter encompasses the multiple generations of jet aircraft from the first generation to the (theoretical) sixth generation.
Fighter generations
The definition of fighter generations has long been subject to debate. However, most agree that the generations break down along these broad lines:
The first generation jet fighter begins with the first jet propulsion fighters, the Lockheed P-80 Shooting Star and Me 262.
The second generation jet fighter included the first swept wing jet with range-only radar and infrared missiles. This generation of jets included the F-86 and MiG-15.
The third generation jet fighter had supersonic speed, pulse radar and the ability to shoot at targets beyond visual range. Jets included in this category are the F-105, F-4, MiG-17 and MiG-21.
The fourth generation jet fighter had pulse doppler radar, high manoeuvrability, look-down/shoot-down missiles. Jets of this generation included the F-15, F-16, Mirage 2000 and MiG-29.
The fourth generation plus (4+) jet fighter had high agility, sensor fusion and reduced radar signature. This generation included the Eurofighter Typhoon, Su-30 and advanced versions of the F-16, F/A-18 and Rafale.
The fourth generation plus plus (4++) jet fighter had the capabilities of active electronically scanned arrays, continued reduced signatures or some “active” waveform cancelling stealth and some supercruise. This generation of jet fighter included the Su-35 and Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.
The fifth generation jet fighter has an all-aspect stealth, internal weapons, extreme agility, full-sensor fusion, integrated avionics and some or full supercruise. This generation includes the F-22, F-35, Sukhoi PAK-FA and J-20 (Chinese).
The sixth generation jet fighter is a theoretical jet fighter with no prototypes yet developed. In theory with will have extreme stealth with efficient in all flight regimes for both subsonic to multi-Mach speeds, possible morphing capability, smart skins, be highly networked, have extremely sensitive sensors, have the capability of both manned and unmanned options and directed energy weapons.
 
< Prev   Next >