Biggest Fighter Jet

Fighter jets play a crucial role in modern military operations. Among these, size often impacts various operational capabilities, from range to payload. When discussing the biggest fighter jet, several aspects deserve attention. Let’s delve into details, comparing size, design, and functionality.

Boeing F-15E Strike Eagle

The F-15E Strike Eagle serves as a prime example of a large and capable fighter jet. This aircraft is characterized by its twin-engine configuration and versatile nature. It boasts a wingspan of 42.8 feet and a length of 63.8 feet. The Strike Eagle is designed for air-to-air combat, but it excels in air-to-ground missions as well.

• Speed: Mach 2.5
• Range: 2,400 miles
• Payload: Up to 23,000 pounds

The F-15E can carry a variety of weapons, from guided bombs to air-to-air missiles. Its advanced avionics ensure precision and effectiveness in diverse missions. The two-seat cockpit distinguishes it from the F-15C, offering better communication and coordination in attacks.

Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker

Russia’s Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker stands out due to its impressive size and performance. The Su-27 has a wingspan of 48.2 feet and a length of 72 feet. It was designed for supremacy in air-to-air combat, with agility and speed tailored to confront Western counterparts like the F-15.

• Speed: Mach 2.35
• Range: 2,190 miles
• Payload: Up to 18,000 pounds

The Su-27 features advanced radar systems and electro-optical targeting. Its powerful engines, the AL-31F turbofans, provide excellent performance. The aircraft’s design allows for impressive maneuverability, crucial in dogfight scenarios.

McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet

The F/A-18 Hornet is a versatile, carrier-capable aircraft. It has a wingspan of 40.4 feet and a length of 56 feet. Initially developed for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, the Hornet is known for its flexibility in various combat roles.

• Speed: Mach 1.8
• Range: 1,250 miles
• Payload: Up to 13,700 pounds

The F/A-18 can perform as a fighter, bomber, and reconnaissance plane. Its reliability and ease of maintenance make it a preferred choice. The Hornet’s avionics and weapon systems, including the APG-65 radar, enhance its effectiveness in both air-to-air and air-to-ground engagements.

Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor

The F-22 Raptor represents the latest in stealth technology and aerial combat. With a wingspan of 44.5 feet and a length of 62 feet, it’s a bit smaller than some peers but brings unique capabilities. The Raptor’s design prioritizes stealth, speed, and agility.

• Speed: Mach 2.25
• Range: 1,839 miles
• Payload: Up to 2,000 pounds internally, with additional external capacity

The F-22 features advanced radar-absorbing materials and aerodynamic design for minimal detection. Its propulsion system, with Pratt & Whitney F119-PW-100 engines, allows supercruise – sustained supersonic flight without afterburners. This capability makes the Raptor extraordinarily elusive and efficient in combat scenarios.

Eurofighter Typhoon

The Eurofighter Typhoon is a product of European collaboration. Its wingspan is 35.11 feet, and it has a length of 52.4 feet. Although it isn’t the largest, the Typhoon packs cutting-edge technology and versatility into its frame.

• Speed: Mach 2.0
• Range: 1,800 miles
• Payload: Up to 16,500 pounds

The Typhoon can engage in air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions. Its advanced electronics, including the Captor radar and DASS protection system, make it a formidable fighter. The aircraft’s design focuses on agility at both high and low speeds, providing an edge in various combat situations.

Saab JAS 39 Gripen

Sweden’s JAS 39 Gripen is unique for its combination of compact size and effectiveness. With a wingspan of 27.6 feet and a length of 47.5 feet, it is one of the smaller fighters. However, among light fighters, it stands out for its capabilities.

• Speed: Mach 2.0
• Range: 2,000 miles
• Payload: Up to 12,000 pounds

Despite its size, the Gripen excels in versatility. It features modern avionics, including the PS-05/A radar and high-end electronic warfare systems. The aircraft can be armed with a variety of missiles and bombs for different mission profiles. Its single-engine design ensures cost-effective operation and maintenance.

Mikoyan MiG-31 Foxhound

Another major player is the MiG-31 Foxhound, known for speed and interception capabilities. The MiG-31 has a wingspan of 44.6 feet and a length of 74.5 feet. Developed as an interceptor, it fills a specialized role in air defense.

• Speed: Mach 2.83
• Range: 1,450 miles
• Payload: Up to 20,000 pounds

The MiG-31 can detect and engage multiple targets simultaneously. Its powerful Zaslon radar and advanced missile systems extend its operational reach. The aircraft’s high speed and robust construction make it suitable for long-range interception, ensuring airspace security.

General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark

The F-111 Aardvark is noteworthy, although primarily classified as a fighter-bomber. The F-111 features a variable-sweep wing design, with a wingspan varying from 63 to 70 feet and a length of 73.5 feet. It was used extensively during the Vietnam War and beyond.

• Speed: Mach 2.5
• Range: 3,200 miles
• Payload: Up to 31,000 pounds

The Aardvark’s versatility shines in its ability to perform both strategic bombing and naval attack missions. Its terrain-following radar allows low-altitude flight, evading enemy detection. Although retired, it set the stage for future multi-role combat aircraft designs.

Dassault Rafale

The Rafale, a French multi-role fighter, showcases advanced technology and agility. It has a wingspan of 35.8 feet and a length of 50.1 feet. The Rafale can undertake air superiority, reconnaissance, and ground attack missions.

• Speed: Mach 1.8
• Range: 2,300 miles
• Payload: Up to 21,000 pounds

The Rafale features advanced Thales RBE2-AA radar and SPECTRA electronic warfare systems. Its flexibility and technological sophistication make it a key component in France’s air force. The aircraft’s ability to carry a wide array of weapons ensures its effectiveness in various combat scenarios.

McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II

The F-4 Phantom II, a legend of aviation history, also deserves mention. With a wingspan of 38.4 feet and a length of 63 feet, it was one of the largest fighters of its time. The Phantom served in multiple air forces for decades, proving its adaptability in different combat situations.

• Speed: Mach 2.23
• Range: 1,750 miles
• Payload: Up to 18,650 pounds

The F-4 boasts powerful J79 engines and a variety of avionics upgrades over its lifespan. It played significant roles in Vietnam, the Gulf War, and in peacetime training missions. The Phantom’s rugged design and impressive load capacity left a lasting legacy in aviation history.

Sukhoi Su-57

Finally, the Sukhoi Su-57 represents a leap into fifth-generation fighter technology. With a wingspan of 46 feet and a length of 66 feet, it merges agility with cutting-edge features. The Su-57 is designed to perform a multitude of roles, including air superiority and ground attack missions.

• Speed: Mach 2.0+
• Range: 2,175 miles
• Payload: Up to 22,000 pounds

The Su-57 incorporates stealth technology, advanced avionics, and supermaneuverability. Its design prioritizes survivability and effectiveness in contested airspaces. The aircraft’s ability to adapt to evolving combat requirements makes it a promising addition to Russia’s military capabilities.