In this post, we’re going to list the fastest planes in the world, showcasing the most incredible feats of aviation speed. From hypersonic(above mach 5) rocket-powered aircraft to record-breaking jets, these machines have shattered limits, reaching astonishing speeds that redefine air travel and military capabilities. Let’s explore the fastest aircraft ever built!
Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the world’s fastest planes, where cutting-edge technology pushes the limits of speed!
1 - NASA's X - 43
The NASA X-43 is not just an aircraft—it’s a revolution in speed. As an experimental scramjet-powered vehicle, it shattered records by reaching Mach 9.6 (7,366 mph / 11,850 km/h) in 2004, making it the fastest air-breathing aircraft ever. Unlike traditional jets or rockets, the X-43 didn’t carry onboard oxygen; instead, its scramjet (supersonic combustion ramjet) engine used atmospheric oxygen, making it a potential game-changer for future hypersonic travel.Built under NASA’s Hyper-X program, the X-43 was an unmanned, small-scale aircraft designed purely for research. It was launched using a B-52 bomber and boosted to hypersonic speeds by a Pegasus rocket before igniting its scramjet engine. The flight proved that air-breathing engines could sustain extreme speeds, paving the way for future high-speed aircraft and space-access technologies. Though the X-43 was a short-lived program, its success continues to influence modern hypersonic research, military applications, and the dream of rapid intercontinental travel.
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| X 43 launched using B-52 |
2 - North American Aviation X-15
The North American X-15 was built during the Cold War as part of a joint program between NASA, the U.S. Air Force, and North American Aviation. Designed to test the extremes of speed and altitude, the X-15 remains the fastest manned aircraft ever, reaching an astonishing Mach 6.7 (4,520 mph or 7,274 km/h) in 1967, piloted by William J. "Pete" Knight.
The X-15 wasn’t just fast—it was built to survive the punishing conditions of hypersonic flight. Its fuselage was crafted from Inconel X, a heat-resistant nickel alloy, to withstand the extreme temperatures caused by air friction at high speeds. Unlike conventional jets, the X-15 used a Reaction Motors XLR99 liquid-fueled rocket engine, producing 57,000 pounds of thrust, allowing it to climb to the edge of space.
To control the aircraft at high altitudes, where traditional aerodynamic surfaces lose effectiveness, the X-15 was equipped with reaction control thrusters, similar to those used in spacecraft. This pioneering technology influenced later spacecraft designs, including the Space Shuttle.
The X-15 didn’t just fly high—it went beyond the atmosphere. In several flights, it exceeded the Kármán Line (100 km or 62 miles above Earth), the internationally recognised boundary of space. Two X-15 pilots, Joseph A. Walker and William H. Dana, officially became astronauts under NASA and Air Force definitions by flying beyond 50 miles (80 km) in altitude.
The X-15 program wasn’t just about breaking records—it laid the groundwork for modern aerospace technology.
Data collected from its flights contributed to the development of:
The Space Shuttle – Flight dynamics, heat shielding, and atmospheric re-entry research.
Hypersonic Vehicles – Concepts for high-speed military and research aircraft.
The Space Shuttle – Flight dynamics, heat shielding, and atmospheric re-entry research.
Hypersonic Vehicles – Concepts for high-speed military and research aircraft.
Future Space Travel – Lessons in rocket-powered atmospheric flight and control systems.
Though the X-15 was retired in 1968, its influence still echoes in today’s hypersonic research and space exploration. It was a true symbol of pioneering aviation, proving that the sky was never the limit—it was just the beginning.
Though the X-15 was retired in 1968, its influence still echoes in today’s hypersonic research and space exploration. It was a true symbol of pioneering aviation, proving that the sky was never the limit—it was just the beginning.
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| X 15 |
3 - Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird
Constructed with titanium to withstand the intense heat from air friction, the SR-71 featured a sleek, radar-evading design, making it an early stealth aircraft. Its Pratt & Whitney J58 engines were unique, operating as turbojets at lower speeds and transitioning into ramjets at high speeds for unmatched efficiency. The aircraft required special JP-7 fuel, resistant to high temperatures, and even needed in-flight refueling shortly after takeoff.
Flying covert intelligence missions during the Cold War, the Blackbird could outpace missiles fired at it, relying solely on speed to evade threats. Though retired in 1999, the SR-71 remains an engineering marvel, influencing modern hypersonic aircraft and reconnaissance technology. To this day, no operational aircraft has matched its speed, altitude, or strategic capabilities.
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| Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird |
4 - Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25 Foxbat
Powered by twin Tumansky R-15B-300 turbojet engines, the Foxbat had an operational ceiling of 78,000 feet (24,000 meters), making it one of the highest-flying combat aircraft ever. It was armed with four air-to-air missiles, capable of engaging high-altitude bombers and reconnaissance planes. Though incredibly fast, the MiG-25 was not agile and lacked advanced avionics, making it less effective in dogfights.
When Soviet pilot Viktor Belenko defected to the U.S. with a MiG-25 in 1976, its technology was analysed , leading to advancements in Western aircraft design. While later replaced by the MiG-31, the MiG-25 remains an iconic symbol of Cold War engineering, known for its raw speed, power, and ability to operate in extreme conditions.
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| Mig 25 |
5 - Bell X-2
The Bell X-2 Starbuster was an experimental rocket-powered aircraft designed to explore flight at extreme altitudes and speeds beyond Mach 3. Developed in the 1950s by Bell Aircraft, the U.S. Air Force, and NASA, it aimed to study aerodynamic heating, stability, and control issues at supersonic speeds. First flown in 1955, the X-2 reached a record-breaking speed of Mach 3.2 (2,094 mph or 3,370 km/h) on September 27, 1956, piloted by Captain Milburn "Mel" Apt.
Constructed with stainless steel and K-monel to withstand extreme temperatures, the X-2 used a powerful two-chamber XLR25 rocket engine. It was air-launched from a modified B-50 bomber, igniting its engines mid-air to push past known speed limits. However, at such high speeds, pilots faced severe stability issues, leading to the tragic loss of Apt when the aircraft went out of control during its record-setting flight.
Despite its short-lived program, the X-2 provided crucial data on high-speed aerodynamics and thermal effects, influencing later hypersonic aircraft like the X-15 and the Space Shuttle. Though only two were built, the X-2 remains a milestone in aviation history, proving that human ingenuity could push the boundaries of flight.
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| Bell x2 |
6 - North American XB-70 Valkyrie
The North American XB-70 Valkyrie was a strategic bomber prototype designed to fly at Mach 3 (2,056 mph or 3,310 km/h) at altitudes of 70,000 feet (21,000 meters), making it nearly untouchable by enemy defences. Developed in the late 1950s as part of a U.S. Air Force program, it aimed to deliver nuclear weapons deep into enemy territory while outrunning interceptors and surface-to-air missiles.
Its revolutionary delta-wing design featured adjustable wingtips that folded downward at high speeds to improve stability and aerodynamic efficiency. Powered by six General Electric YJ93 engines, the XB-70’s stainless steel and titanium airframe withstood extreme temperatures caused by air friction at Mach 3. However, advancements in Soviet air defenses and the emergence of ICBMs (Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles) made high-speed bombers obsolete, leading to the project's cancellation.
Only two XB-70s were built, and one was tragically lost in a mid-air collision during a test flight in 1966. The remaining aircraft continued testing high-speed aerodynamics and propulsion until 1969. Though never entering service, the XB-70 influenced modern supersonic aircraft, stealth bombers, and spaceplane concepts, standing as one of the most ambitious aircraft ever created.
The North American XB-70 Valkyrie was a strategic bomber prototype designed to fly at Mach 3 (2,056 mph or 3,310 km/h) at altitudes of 70,000 feet (21,000 meters), making it nearly untouchable by enemy defences. Developed in the late 1950s as part of a U.S. Air Force program, it aimed to deliver nuclear weapons deep into enemy territory while outrunning interceptors and surface-to-air missiles.
Its revolutionary delta-wing design featured adjustable wingtips that folded downward at high speeds to improve stability and aerodynamic efficiency. Powered by six General Electric YJ93 engines, the XB-70’s stainless steel and titanium airframe withstood extreme temperatures caused by air friction at Mach 3. However, advancements in Soviet air defenses and the emergence of ICBMs (Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles) made high-speed bombers obsolete, leading to the project's cancellation.
Only two XB-70s were built, and one was tragically lost in a mid-air collision during a test flight in 1966. The remaining aircraft continued testing high-speed aerodynamics and propulsion until 1969. Though never entering service, the XB-70 influenced modern supersonic aircraft, stealth bombers, and spaceplane concepts, standing as one of the most ambitious aircraft ever created.
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| XB 70 |
7 - Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-31 Foxhound
The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-31 Foxhound is a high-speed, long-range interceptor designed to defend Russian airspace against fast-moving threats. Introduced in 1981, it was developed from the MiG-25 Foxbat but featured significant upgrades, including advanced radar, modern avionics, and a two-seat cockpit for better mission management. With a top speed of Mach 2.83 (1,900 mph or 3,000 km/h) and an operational ceiling of 67,600 feet (20,600 meters), the MiG-31 remains one of the fastest combat aircraft in service.
Equipped with D-30F6 after burning turbofan engines, the MiG-31 was the first aircraft to feature a phased-array radar, capable of tracking multiple targets simultaneously at extreme distances. It can engage high-altitude bombers, cruise missiles, and even low-orbit satellites with its R-37 and R-33 long-range air-to-air missiles. Unlike traditional fighters, it operates in teams, with multiple MiG-31s coordinating over vast areas to form an impenetrable air defence network.
Still in service today, modernised versions like the MiG-31BM continue to patrol Russian borders and serve as a platform for hypersonic missile technology, including the Kinzhal missile. Its unmatched speed, endurance, and weaponry make it one of the most formidable interceptors ever built.
The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-31 Foxhound is a high-speed, long-range interceptor designed to defend Russian airspace against fast-moving threats. Introduced in 1981, it was developed from the MiG-25 Foxbat but featured significant upgrades, including advanced radar, modern avionics, and a two-seat cockpit for better mission management. With a top speed of Mach 2.83 (1,900 mph or 3,000 km/h) and an operational ceiling of 67,600 feet (20,600 meters), the MiG-31 remains one of the fastest combat aircraft in service.
Equipped with D-30F6 after burning turbofan engines, the MiG-31 was the first aircraft to feature a phased-array radar, capable of tracking multiple targets simultaneously at extreme distances. It can engage high-altitude bombers, cruise missiles, and even low-orbit satellites with its R-37 and R-33 long-range air-to-air missiles. Unlike traditional fighters, it operates in teams, with multiple MiG-31s coordinating over vast areas to form an impenetrable air defence network.
Still in service today, modernised versions like the MiG-31BM continue to patrol Russian borders and serve as a platform for hypersonic missile technology, including the Kinzhal missile. Its unmatched speed, endurance, and weaponry make it one of the most formidable interceptors ever built.
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| Mig 31 |
8 - McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle
The McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle is one of the most dominant air superiority fighters ever built, boasting an unmatched combat record of over 100 aerial victories with zero losses. Developed in the early 1970s in response to Soviet advancements, the F-15 was designed for speed, agility, and overwhelming firepower. With a top speed of Mach 2.5 (1,875 mph or 3,017 km/h) and a service ceiling of 65,000 feet (19,812 meters), it can engage enemies at extreme altitudes.
Powered by twin Pratt & Whitney F100 engines, the F-15’s advanced radar and avionics enable it to detect, track, and engage multiple targets beyond visual range. It carries an arsenal of AIM-7 Sparrow, AIM-120 AMRAAM, and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, along with a 20mm M61 Vulcan cannon for close combat. Designed for air dominance, the Eagle's combination of speed, maneuverability, and firepower has kept it relevant for decades.
Constantly upgraded, variants like the F-15E Strike Eagle and the new F-15EX enhance its ground-attack and multi-role capabilities. With over 50 years of service, the F-15 remains a symbol of air superiority, ensuring its place in history as one of the greatest fighter jets ever built.
The McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle is one of the most dominant air superiority fighters ever built, boasting an unmatched combat record of over 100 aerial victories with zero losses. Developed in the early 1970s in response to Soviet advancements, the F-15 was designed for speed, agility, and overwhelming firepower. With a top speed of Mach 2.5 (1,875 mph or 3,017 km/h) and a service ceiling of 65,000 feet (19,812 meters), it can engage enemies at extreme altitudes.
Powered by twin Pratt & Whitney F100 engines, the F-15’s advanced radar and avionics enable it to detect, track, and engage multiple targets beyond visual range. It carries an arsenal of AIM-7 Sparrow, AIM-120 AMRAAM, and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, along with a 20mm M61 Vulcan cannon for close combat. Designed for air dominance, the Eagle's combination of speed, maneuverability, and firepower has kept it relevant for decades.
Constantly upgraded, variants like the F-15E Strike Eagle and the new F-15EX enhance its ground-attack and multi-role capabilities. With over 50 years of service, the F-15 remains a symbol of air superiority, ensuring its place in history as one of the greatest fighter jets ever built.
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| F15 |
9 - Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker
The Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker is a legendary air superiority fighter designed to rival the F-15 Eagle and dominate the skies. Developed in the 1970s and entering service in 1985, it combines speed, agility, and firepower to achieve air dominance. With a top speed of Mach 2.35 (1,553 mph or 2,500 km/h) and an operational ceiling of 62,523 feet (19,000 meters), the Su-27 can engage high-altitude threats with precision.
Powered by twin Saturn AL-31F after burning turbofans, the Flanker is known for its super maneuverability, capable of performing extreme aerobatic moves like the Pugachev’s Cobra, where it momentarily stalls mid-air and then recovers. Its N001 radar and infrared search-and-track (IRST) system allow it to detect and engage multiple targets at long ranges. Armed with R-27 and R-73 air-to-air missiles, along with a 30mm GSh-30-1 cannon, it excels in both long-range and close dogfights.
The Su-27 has spawned numerous variants, including the Su-30, Su-33, and Su-35, each improving upon its original design. Still in service today, the Flanker remains one of the most respected and feared fighter jets, proving Russia’s capability in producing world-class military aircraft.
The Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker is a legendary air superiority fighter designed to rival the F-15 Eagle and dominate the skies. Developed in the 1970s and entering service in 1985, it combines speed, agility, and firepower to achieve air dominance. With a top speed of Mach 2.35 (1,553 mph or 2,500 km/h) and an operational ceiling of 62,523 feet (19,000 meters), the Su-27 can engage high-altitude threats with precision.
Powered by twin Saturn AL-31F after burning turbofans, the Flanker is known for its super maneuverability, capable of performing extreme aerobatic moves like the Pugachev’s Cobra, where it momentarily stalls mid-air and then recovers. Its N001 radar and infrared search-and-track (IRST) system allow it to detect and engage multiple targets at long ranges. Armed with R-27 and R-73 air-to-air missiles, along with a 30mm GSh-30-1 cannon, it excels in both long-range and close dogfights.
The Su-27 has spawned numerous variants, including the Su-30, Su-33, and Su-35, each improving upon its original design. Still in service today, the Flanker remains one of the most respected and feared fighter jets, proving Russia’s capability in producing world-class military aircraft.
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| Su-27 |
10 - Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23 Flogger
Its variable-sweep wings allowed it to adapt to different flight conditions—extended for slow-speed agility and swept back for high-speed pursuits. The AN/AWG-9 radar, paired with AIM-54 Phoenix missiles, gave the Tomcat an unmatched ability to engage multiple targets at over 100 miles (160 km). It also carried AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, along with a 20mm M61 Vulcan cannon for close combat.
Famously featured in Top Gun, the F-14 became an icon of naval aviation. Though retired by the U.S. in 2006, it remains in service with Iran. Its blend of speed, firepower, and adaptability made it one of the most formidable and beloved fighters in aviation history.
The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23 Flogger was the Soviet Union’s first variable-sweep wing fighter, designed for both air superiority and ground attack roles. Introduced in 1970, it was a major advancement over its predecessor, the MiG-21, offering greater speed, firepower, and versatility. With a top speed of Mach 2.35 (1,553 mph or 2,500 km/h) and a service ceiling of 60,700 feet (18,500 meters), the MiG-23 was built to counter Western fighters like the F-4 Phantom II.
Its variable-geometry wings allowed it to adjust for different flight conditions—fully extended for better lift during takeoff and dogfights, and swept back for high-speed performance. Powered by a Khatchaturov R-35-300 turbojet, it could accelerate quickly and engage targets at long distances using its Sapfir-23 radar and R-23 and R-60 air-to-air missiles. Unlike earlier Soviet fighters, the MiG-23 had a beyond-visual-range (BVR) combat capability, significantly improving its effectiveness.
Though later overshadowed by the MiG-29, the MiG-23 was widely exported and saw combat in numerous conflicts. While retired from Russian service, it remains operational in some countries, marking an important step in Soviet fighter evolution with its innovative swing-wing design and improved avionics.
Mig 23
11 - Grumman F-14 Tomcat
The Grumman F-14 Tomcat was a revolutionary twin-engine, variable-sweep wing fighter designed for the U.S. Navy to dominate both air superiority and fleet defense. Entering service in 1974, it was built to counter Soviet bombers and fighters with its powerful radar, long-range missiles, and incredible maneuverability. With a top speed of Mach 2.34 (1,544 mph or 2,485 km/h) and a service ceiling of 53,000 feet (16,150 meters), the F-14 was one of the most advanced aircraft of its time.Its variable-sweep wings allowed it to adapt to different flight conditions—extended for slow-speed agility and swept back for high-speed pursuits. The AN/AWG-9 radar, paired with AIM-54 Phoenix missiles, gave the Tomcat an unmatched ability to engage multiple targets at over 100 miles (160 km). It also carried AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, along with a 20mm M61 Vulcan cannon for close combat.
Famously featured in Top Gun, the F-14 became an icon of naval aviation. Though retired by the U.S. in 2006, it remains in service with Iran. Its blend of speed, firepower, and adaptability made it one of the most formidable and beloved fighters in aviation history.
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| f14 tomcat |
12 - Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor
The Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor is the world’s first fifth-generation stealth fighter, designed for total air superiority. Entering service in 2005, it remains unmatched in speed, agility, stealth, and sensor fusion. With a top speed of Mach 2.25 (1,500 mph or 2,414 km/h) and a service ceiling of 65,000 feet (19,812 meters), the F-22 dominates both high and low-altitude engagements.
Its stealth design minimizes radar detection, while its supercruise capability allows it to sustain supersonic speeds without afterburners—giving it a major edge over adversaries. Powered by twin Pratt & Whitney F119 engines, it features vectoring nozzles, enabling extreme maneuverability unmatched by any operational fighter. Its AN/APG-77 AESA radar provides advanced situational awareness, while its arsenal includes AIM-120 AMRAAM, AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, and a 20mm M61 Vulcan cannon.
Though originally intended for large-scale production, only 195 were built due to high costs and the emergence of newer technologies. The U.S. chose not to export the F-22, keeping it exclusive to its own air force. Even today, no aircraft has fully surpassed its blend of stealth, speed, and dogfighting ability, making the Raptor a true legend in modern aviation.
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| f22 raptor |
13 - Sukhoi Su-35S Flanker-E
The Sukhoi Su-35S Flanker-E is Russia’s most advanced 4.5-generation multirole fighter, designed to dominate air combat with super maneuverability, cutting-edge avionics, and long-range weaponry. Entering service in 2014, it is an upgraded version of the Su-27, featuring thrust-vectoring engines and enhanced radar capabilities. With a top speed of Mach 2.25 (1,500 mph or 2,400 km/h) and a service ceiling of 59,000 feet (18,000 meters), the Su-35S excels in both dogfighting and long-range engagements.
Powered by twin Saturn AL-41F1S engines, the Su-35S can perform post-stall maneuvers like the Pugachev’s Cobra and the Kulbit, making it nearly unbeatable in close combat. Its Irbis-E radar detects enemy aircraft at distances over 250 miles (400 km), while its infrared search and track (IRST) system allows it to engage stealth targets. It carries a diverse arsenal, including R-77 and R-73 air-to-air missiles, precision-guided bombs, and a 30mm GSh-30-1 cannon.
With no reliance on stealth, the Su-35S instead focuses on overwhelming agility and firepower. Deployed by the Russian Air Force and exported to multiple countries, it remains one of the world’s most formidable air superiority fighters, challenging even fifth-generation opponents in raw performance.
The Sukhoi Su-35S Flanker-E is Russia’s most advanced 4.5-generation multirole fighter, designed to dominate air combat with super maneuverability, cutting-edge avionics, and long-range weaponry. Entering service in 2014, it is an upgraded version of the Su-27, featuring thrust-vectoring engines and enhanced radar capabilities. With a top speed of Mach 2.25 (1,500 mph or 2,400 km/h) and a service ceiling of 59,000 feet (18,000 meters), the Su-35S excels in both dogfighting and long-range engagements.
Powered by twin Saturn AL-41F1S engines, the Su-35S can perform post-stall maneuvers like the Pugachev’s Cobra and the Kulbit, making it nearly unbeatable in close combat. Its Irbis-E radar detects enemy aircraft at distances over 250 miles (400 km), while its infrared search and track (IRST) system allows it to engage stealth targets. It carries a diverse arsenal, including R-77 and R-73 air-to-air missiles, precision-guided bombs, and a 30mm GSh-30-1 cannon.
With no reliance on stealth, the Su-35S instead focuses on overwhelming agility and firepower. Deployed by the Russian Air Force and exported to multiple countries, it remains one of the world’s most formidable air superiority fighters, challenging even fifth-generation opponents in raw performance.
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| Su 35 |
14 - Chengdu J-20 (China)
The Chengdu J-20 is China’s first fifth-generation stealth fighter, designed to challenge Western air superiority jets like the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II. Developed by Chengdu Aerospace Corporation, it officially entered service with the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) in 2017. With a top speed of Mach 2 (1,535 mph or 2,470 km/h) and a service ceiling of 66,000 feet (20,000 meters), the J-20 combines stealth, speed, and long-range strike capability.
Unlike traditional stealth fighters, the J-20 features canard-delta wings for enhanced agility and internal weapons bays to reduce radar visibility. It is equipped with advanced AESA radar, an electro-optical targeting system, and long-range PL-15 missiles, which can engage targets beyond 186 miles (300 km). Recent models feature domestically built WS-15 engines, replacing Russian powerplants to improve thrust and maneuverability.
Designed for beyond-visual-range (BVR) combat, the J-20 prioritizes stealth and situational awareness over dogfighting. As China continues to refine its technology, the J-20 is evolving into a multirole platform capable of aerial dominance and precision strikes. It represents China’s ambition to rival the world’s most advanced fighter jets and reshape modern air warfare.
J 20
15 - Eurofighter Typhoon
Powered by twin Eurojet EJ200 turbofan engines, it features supercruise capability, allowing it to sustain supersonic speeds without afterburners. Its highly aerodynamic delta-canard design gives it exceptional agility, making it one of the most maneuverable fighters in the world. Equipped with an advanced CAPTOR-E AESA radar, the Typhoon can track multiple targets at long distances while remaining highly resistant to electronic warfare.
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| Eurofighter typhoon |
The aircraft carries a diverse weapons load, including Meteor BVR missiles, ASRAAM short-range missiles, Storm Shadow cruise missiles, and precision-guided bombs, along with a 27mm Mauser BK-27 cannon. Operated by multiple NATO nations, the Eurofighter Typhoon continues to evolve, integrating new technologies to maintain its edge as one of the world’s premier combat aircraft.