Physics Wallah

Fastest Active Fighter Jets in 2024, Check List of Fighter Jets

Fastest Active Fighter Jets in 2024 is discussed in detail in this article. Check complete list of Fastest Active Fighter Jets in 2024 below in this article.
authorImageNigam Sharma27 Jun, 2024
Share

Share

Fastest Active Fighter Jets in 2024

Fastest Active Fighter Jets in 2024: In modern aerial combat, speed is a key factor that sets the best fighter jets apart. This article will explore the Fastest Active Fighter Jets in 2024, focusing on the top five jets known for their incredible speed and advanced technology. We'll look at their powerful engines, sophisticated radar systems, and unique features that make them leaders in the skies. Discover what makes these jets the fastest and most formidable aircraft in operation today.

Fastest Active Fighter Jets in 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of aerial combat, speed remains a defining factor in the effectiveness of fighter jets. This article delves into the Fastest Active Fighter Jets in 2024 , showcasing the top five operational jets renowned for their unmatched speed and agility. By exploring each jet's unique features, powerful engines, advanced radar systems, and versatile armament, this comprehensive guide provides insights into how these modern marvels dominate the skies. From the Sukhoi Su-35's super-maneuverability to the Mikoyan MiG-31's supersonic interception capabilities, discover the cutting-edge technology and strategic advantages that make these jets the fastest in active service today.

Sukhoi Su-35 – Mach 2.25

The Sukhoi Su-35 Flanker-E, an advanced variant of Russia’s Su-27 Flanker family, is a dedicated air-superiority fighter jet known for its super-maneuverability and powerful capabilities.
  • Engines : Powered by two Saturn AL-41F1S afterburning turbofan engines, producing 86.3 kN of thrust each in dry run and up to 142.2 kN in afterburner.
  • Radar : Equipped with the Byelka N035 Irbis-E Passive Electronically Scanned Array (PESA) radar, capable of tracking targets up to 400 km away and engaging up to eight targets simultaneously.
  • Countermeasures : Utilizes the Khibiny L-175V ECM system for electronic countermeasures, enhancing its survivability against enemy radar.
  • Armament : Armed with a 30mm GSh-30-1 autocannon and 12 hardpoints for up to 8,000 kg of ordnance, including air-to-air, ground attack, and anti-ship missiles.
  • Operators : Currently operated by Russia and China, with deployments in conflicts such as the Russian intervention in Syria and the ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor – Mach 2.25

The F-22 Raptor, developed by Lockheed Martin, is widely regarded as the best fighter jet in active service, excelling in versatility, stealth, and firepower.
  • Engines : Powered by two Pratt & Whitney F119-PW-100 augmented turbofan engines, each producing 116 kN of thrust dry and 156 kN in afterburner.
  • Supercruise : Capable of maintaining supersonic speeds without afterburners at Mach 1.82.
  • Radar and Avionics : Features the AN/APG-77 radar system and advanced avionics, offering superior situational awareness and stealth capabilities.
  • Armament : Equipped with a 20mm M61A2 Vulcan Gatling gun, six internal AIM-120 AMRAAMs, and two AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles. It can also carry additional external ordnance.
  • Stealth : Boasts a Radar Cross Section (RCS) of 0.0001 sq. m, making it extremely difficult to detect.
  • Deployment : Exclusively used by the USAF with 186 operational units, the F-22 remains a dominant force in military exercises and is a benchmark for future fighter designs.

Mikoyan MiG-29 – Mach 2.3

The Mikoyan MiG-29 Fulcrum is celebrated for its agility, versatility, and combat prowess, making it a symbol of Russian aerospace engineering excellence.
  • Engines : Powered by two RD-33 afterburning turbofan engines, each producing 88.3 kN of thrust with afterburner.
  • Aerodynamics : Capable of high-G maneuvers exceeding +9 g and -4 g forces, making it formidable in dogfights.
  • Radar and Sensors : Equipped with the RP-29 radar and OLS-27 infrared search and track system, allowing for target tracking and engagement in various conditions.
  • Armament : Armed with Vympel R-60, R-27, R-73 missiles, and a 30mm GSh-30-1 autocannon. The Indian variant also carries Astra BVR missiles.
  • Operators : Operated by multiple countries including Russia, India, and Ukraine, with over 1600 units produced worldwide.

Boeing F-15 EX Advanced Eagle – Mach 2.497

The Boeing F-15 EX Advanced Eagle, the latest variant of the legendary F-15 platform, continues to be a staple of the USAF due to its long-range precision and electronic warfare capabilities.
  • Engines : Powered by two General Electric F110-GE-129 afterburning turbofan engines, each producing 76.31 kN dry thrust and 131 kN in afterburner.
  • Radar and Avionics : Features the AN/APG-82(V)1 AESA radar and advanced countermeasures like the Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS).
  • Armament : Equipped with a 20mm M61A1 Vulcan Gatling gun and capable of carrying a mixture of AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-120 AMRAAM, AGM-88 HARM, and various bombs.
  • Versatility : Designed to replace older F-15 models and integrate with 5th-gen fighters, offering deep support and interdiction capabilities.
  • Operators : In active service with the USAF, and future operators include Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Mikoyan MiG-31 – Mach 2.83

The Mikoyan MiG-31 Foxhound, the fastest active fighter jet in the world, is a supersonic interceptor renowned for its speed and long-range capabilities.
  • Engines : Powered by two Solodiev D-30F6 afterburning turbofan engines, each producing 93 kN dry thrust and 152 kN in afterburner.
  • Speed and Range : Capable of reaching Mach 2.83 with a cruise speed of Mach 2.35 and a range of 3000 km with additional drop tanks.
  • Radar and Sensors : Equipped with the Zaslon S-800 PESA radar, capable of tracking 10 targets and engaging 4 simultaneously, along with an infrared search and track system.
  • Armament : Primary armament includes Vympel R-33 AAMs and a 23mm GSh-6-23 cannon. It can also carry Kh-31 and Kh-59 anti-ship missiles and KAB-1500 bombs.
  • Operators : Primarily used by Russia, with Kazakhstan also operating a limited number of units. The MiG-31 can carry the Kh-47 Kinzhal hypersonic missile, enhancing its strategic capabilities.
In the dynamic world of aerial combat, speed and agility are paramount. The fastest active fighter jets in 2024 showcase the pinnacle of modern aerospace engineering, combining advanced technology, powerful engines, and versatile weapon systems. These aircraft ensure that the nations operating them maintain air superiority and strategic advantage in various combat scenarios. As technology continues to evolve, these fighter jets represent the cutting edge of aerial warfare, setting the stage for future developments in military aviation.

Defence Exams Related Links
AFCAT 1 2024 Notification CDS Notification 2024
UPSC CAPF Notification 2024 NDA 1 Notification 2024
Indian Army Agniveer Notification Indian Airforce Vayu Notification
Indian Agniveer Navy Notification Army MES Recruitment

Fastest Active Fighter Jets in 2024 FAQs

Q1. Why is speed so important for fighter jets?

Ans. Speed is crucial for fighter jets as it enhances their ability to engage and disengage quickly in combat, evade enemy threats, and cover large areas in a short amount of time. High-speed capabilities also improve interception and surveillance efficiency.

Q2. Which is the fastest active fighter jet in 2024?

Ans. The fastest active fighter jet in 2024 is the Mikoyan MiG-31 Foxhound, capable of reaching speeds up to Mach 2.83. Its supersonic speed and long-range capabilities make it the top contender for speed in active service.

Q3. What are the key features of the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor?

Ans. The Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor features advanced stealth capabilities, a powerful AN/APG-77 radar system, two Pratt & Whitney F119-PW-100 engines enabling speeds up to Mach 2.25, and supercruise capabilities allowing sustained supersonic flight without afterburners.

Q4. How do the radar and electronic systems enhance the performance of these fighter jets?

Ans. Advanced radar and electronic systems, such as AESA and PESA radars, enhance situational awareness, target detection, and tracking capabilities. Electronic countermeasure systems help evade enemy radar and missile threats, significantly boosting the jet's survivability and combat effectiveness.

Q5. What makes the Boeing F-15 EX Advanced Eagle unique among modern fighter jets?

Ans. The Boeing F-15 EX Advanced Eagle stands out for its combination of speed, versatility, and advanced avionics. It features powerful General Electric F110-GE-129 engines, a state-of-the-art AN/APG-82(V)1 AESA radar, and a robust electronic warfare system, making it a highly adaptable and formidable aircraft in various combat roles.
Join 15 Million students on the app today!
Point IconLive & recorded classes available at ease
Point IconDashboard for progress tracking
Point IconMillions of practice questions at your fingertips
Download ButtonDownload Button
Banner Image
Banner Image
Free Learning Resources
Know about Physics Wallah
Physics Wallah is an Indian edtech platform that provides accessible & comprehensive learning experiences to students from Class 6th to postgraduate level. We also provide extensive NCERT solutions, sample paper, NEET, JEE Mains, BITSAT previous year papers & more such resources to students. Physics Wallah also caters to over 3.5 million registered students and over 78 lakh+ Youtube subscribers with 4.8 rating on its app.
We Stand Out because
We provide students with intensive courses with India’s qualified & experienced faculties & mentors. PW strives to make the learning experience comprehensive and accessible for students of all sections of society. We believe in empowering every single student who couldn't dream of a good career in engineering and medical field earlier.
Our Key Focus Areas
Physics Wallah's main focus is to make the learning experience as economical as possible for all students. With our affordable courses like Lakshya, Udaan and Arjuna and many others, we have been able to provide a platform for lakhs of aspirants. From providing Chemistry, Maths, Physics formula to giving e-books of eminent authors like RD Sharma, RS Aggarwal and Lakhmir Singh, PW focuses on every single student's need for preparation.
What Makes Us Different
Physics Wallah strives to develop a comprehensive pedagogical structure for students, where they get a state-of-the-art learning experience with study material and resources. Apart from catering students preparing for JEE Mains and NEET, PW also provides study material for each state board like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others

Copyright © 2025 Physicswallah Limited All rights reserved.