How Each New Generation Of Fighter Jets Gets Smarter And Deadlier
The evolution of fighter jets shows how technology and warfare have changed, with each generation—from the first to the fifth—facing new challenges and reinventing itself
Fighter jets, now capable of stealth and high-speed maneuvers, have come a long way from their early days as slow, piston-engine aircraft. This evolution marks a significant leap in military technology and aerial combat.
Each generation of fighter jets has brought advances in speed, power, intelligence, multi-functionality and network integration. The term 'fighter jet generations" charts the evolution of combat technology and strategy.
Starting from World War II, we have now reached the fifth and sixth generations, where jets feature advanced sensors, data links and AI-driven systems.
News18 explores the unique characteristics of each generation, highlighting their technological breakthroughs and how these jets have expanded modern warfare beyond the skies—into cyber and space domains.
Generation 1 – Early Era Jets (1940-1950)
This era marked the transition from propellers to jet engines, though the technology was still nascent. These jets lacked radar, had only machine guns and unguided rockets, and were limited in speed and altitude. Their design and construction were quite basic. Notable examples include the F-86 Sabre (USA), MiG-15 (USSR), Gloster Meteor (UK), de Havilland Vampire (UK), and Dassault Ouragan (France).
Generation 2 – Supersonic And Radar Era (1950-1960)
Jets in this era achieved supersonic speeds, incorporated basic radar, and introduced air-to-air missiles like the AIM-9. Radar became crucial in warfare. Examples include the MiG-21 (USSR), F-104 Starfighter (USA), Mirage III (France), and English Electric Lightning (UK).
Jets evolved to perform both air-to-ground and air-to-air attacks. With digital avionics, fly-by-wire systems, and improved thrust-to-weight ratios, they became more manoeuvrable and adaptable to various missions. Notable examples include the F-4 Phantom II (USA), MiG-23 and MiG-27 (USSR), SEPECAT Jaguar (UK/France), and Mirage F1 (France).
Generation 3.5 – Upgraded 3rd Generation (1980-1990)
This generation modernised older aircraft with Pulse-Doppler radar, glass cockpits, limited BVR missile capabilities, and digital systems. Examples include the MiG-23MLD (USSR), F-4E (USA), F-5E Tiger II (USA), Mirage F1 CR/CT (France), and MiG-21 Bison (India).
Generation 4 – Digital Revolution And Beginning of Stealth (Since 1990s)
Jets underwent a digital revolution, becoming part of a complex network rather than solitary fighters. Modern warfare now involves information, communication, and technology. Fighter jets in this era became centres of digital technology, advanced avionics, and network-centric warfare. Examples include the Mirage 2000 (France), MiG-29 (USSR), F/A-18 Hornet (USA), JAS 39 Gripen A/B (Sweden), and HAL Tejas Mk1 (India).
Generation 4.5 – Advanced 4th Generation
These jets, technically 4th Generation, have been upgraded with modern technology, improved avionics, advanced sensors, and weapon systems. Sometimes called '4th Generation Plus," they incorporate some 5th Generation technologies like sensor fusion and low radar visibility. Examples include the MiG-29SMT/UPG (Russia/India), Dassault Mirage 2000-5 (France), F-16 Block 50/52+ (USA), HAL Tejas Mk1A (India), JAS 39 Gripen C/D, and Dassault Rafale.
Generation 5 – Fully Stealth And Next-Generation Jets
The most advanced and revolutionary generation, these jets are built entirely on stealth technology to evade detection. They feature state-of-the-art avionics, sensor fusion, supercruise capabilities, and network-centric warfare systems. Examples include the F-22 Raptor (USA), F-35 Lightning II (USA), Su-57 Felon (Russia), Chengdu J-20 (China), and HAL AMCA (India).
The evolution of fighter jets showcases how technology and warfare requirements have changed over time. From the early beginnings of the first generation to the game-changing advancements of the fifth generation, each era has faced new challenges and reinvented itself. Future advancements will likely push the boundaries of imagination, further strengthening air forces and national security.
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