Explore the history of fighter aircraft: from the First World War to 2025, these legendary aircraft have left their mark on combat and global deterrence.

Since the First World War, fighter aircraft have shaped military doctrine. Legendary aircraft evolve at the pace of technology and great-power rivalry. Their role is not limited to attack. They also act as a deterrent. Speed, agility and firepower make these aircraft decisive in conflicts. Some models remain engraved in the collective memory for their contribution to offensive or defensive strategies. Others embody a form of air superiority, underpinned by high production figures and major innovations. These developments took place against an often tense economic and political backdrop.

The beginnings during the Great War

The First World War marked the arrival of the airplane in operations. The German Fokker Eindecker, introduced in 1915, is often seen as a precursor. It weighed around 360 kg empty and reached speeds of 140 km/h. Its synchronized machine gun gives it an advantage. In contrast, the French Nieuport 11, nicknamed “Bébé”, weighs around 380 kg empty and reaches 156 km/h. These canvas-and-wood machines revolutionized aerial combat. They supported both reconnaissance and interception missions. Despite their rudimentary design, they changed the way ground forces acted and protected themselves.

Impact during the Second World War

The decisive role of aircraft

The Second World War revealed the strategic potential of combat aircraft. Models like the Supermarine Spitfire and Messerschmitt Bf 109 reach speeds of over 550 km/h. The Spitfire, powered by a Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, weighs around 2,300 kg empty and can climb to over 6,000 meters in just a few minutes. More than 33,000 Bf 109s were produced, posing a persistent threat to opposing forces. Pilots are always looking for greater autonomy and maneuverability. Technical developments include improved aerodynamics, more powerful engines and optimized weapons.

The arrival of fighter-bombers

The air force soon realized the benefits of equipping certain aircraft with bombs. The American P-47 Thunderbolt, with a maximum take-off weight of 8,800 kg, carries over 1,100 kg of bombs. Its speed exceeds 690 km/h, making it versatile. The British Hawker Typhoon, focused on ground support, reaches 660 km/h. These aircraft multiply their tactical missions. They aim at ground targets, support infantry and reduce enemy mechanical progress. Their flexibility served both to attack and protect Allied troops, marking another milestone in the development of fighter aircraft.

The advent of the jet plane

From the Korean War to the rise to power

The introduction of jet engines in the 1940s transformed speed and maneuverability. During the Korean War (1950-1953), the Soviet MiG-15 and the American F-86 Sabre reached speeds of almost 1,100 km/h. Over 12,000 MiG-15s were produced, with a practical ceiling of over 15,000 meters. The F-86, estimated at over 7,800 units built, also received improvements in flight control and armament. This confrontation proves the importance of continuous development, pilot training and adaptation to new enemy tactics.

The Cold War and diversification

The example of the MiG-21 and the F-4 Phantom II

The Cold War led to a proliferation of aircraft designs. The MiG-21, produced in the Soviet Union, sold over 11,000 units. It reaches Mach 2 and can climb to 17,500 meters. The American F-4 Phantom II, meanwhile, is produced in over 5,000 units and also achieves Mach 2. Both aircraft serve in several air forces, sometimes on opposing sides. The MiG-21 costs around 2 million euros today, while the F-4 often exceeds 4 million euros. Their performance influenced employment doctrines and pilot training.

1970s-1990s: accelerated modernization

F-15 and Su-27

In the 1970s, the USA launched the F-15 Eagle, capable of Mach 2.5. Its thrust-to-weight ratio, greater than 1, allows it to climb almost vertically. Its unit cost exceeds the current €27 million. It quickly became a symbol of American supremacy. In response, the Soviet Union deploys the Su-27, which reaches Mach 2.35 and is extremely agile. With a range of almost 3,500 km, it played an air superiority role. On-board electronics, guided weapons and all-weather capability underline the rapid evolution of this field.

1990-2000: stealth and versatility

The F-22 Raptor revolution

The United States developed the F-22 Raptor in the 1990s. It incorporates stealth technology that reduces the radar cross-section, and reaches Mach 2.25. Its unit cost is around 150 million euros. Thanks to its maneuverability, it outperforms several aircraft of the same generation. It is equipped with long-range air-to-air missiles and an internal cannon. Stealth is about penetrating enemy airspace and striking without being easily detected. Advanced sensors and rapid data processing systems enhance its ability to operate in a saturated environment, foreshadowing new directions in air combat.

2000-2025: cutting-edge technology and deterrence

F-35, Su-57 and J-20

Since 2000, innovation has focused on data fusion, stealth and versatility. The F-35 Lightning II costs over 80 million euros per unit. It combines integrated avionics and multi-role capabilities. The Russian Su-57 achieves Mach 2 and incorporates active antenna radars. Its estimated price exceeds 35 million euros. The Chinese J-20, introduced around 2017, reaches Mach 2 and aims for a strategic advantage in the Asia-Pacific region. Together, these aircraft seek to control airspace, strike ground targets and deter by the sheer presence of an advanced air force.

These legendary fighters chart a course marked by innovation, rivalry and determination to dominate airspace.

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