Top 10 Most Popular Fighter Jets in 2025

In 2025, the world’s air forces will rely on a wide variety of fighter jets, from cutting-edge 5th-generation models to older aircraft from the 1970s. According to the 2025 World Air Forces Directory, there are 14,147 active combat aircraft worldwide, and here’s a look at the top 10 most popular fighter jets currently in service.

1. F-16 Fighting Falcon (2,084 aircraft)
The F-16 Fighting Falcon remains the most popular fighter jet in 2025, with 2,084 units in active service. First flown in 1974, the F-16 has become the most widely operated fighter jet globally, with air forces in more than 25 countries. Despite its age, the F-16 continues to be upgraded, maintaining its relevance through improvements in engines, radars, and avionics. The USAF operates 708 F-16s, while other countries, including Egypt, Greece, and South Korea, fly significant fleets.

2. Sukhoi Su-27/30/34/35 Family (1,284 aircraft)
The Sukhoi Su-27 family, developed by the Soviet Union as a competitor to the F-15, remains a dominant force, with 1,284 active aircraft. The family includes the Su-30, Su-34, and Su-35, all of which are still in production. Russia operates the largest fleet, with 384 aircraft in the Air Force and 43 in the Navy. China also has a large fleet, with 319 active Su-27 derivatives.

3. McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle (919 aircraft)
The F-15 Eagle, known for its impressive combat record, ranks third with 919 aircraft in active service. Considered the most successful fighter jet ever built, the F-15 has been continuously updated and remains in production as the F-15EX. With more than 1,600 units produced, the F-15 continues to serve in multiple countries, including the USA, Japan, Israel, and Saudi Arabia.

4. McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet (827 aircraft)
The F/A-18 Hornet, originally developed for the U.S. Navy, has become a key asset for several nations. With 827 aircraft in service, the Hornet has been heavily upgraded, with the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet now in production. The U.S. Navy and Marine Corps operate the largest fleets, but the aircraft is also in use by Australia, Canada, and other countries.

5. Mikoyan MiG-29 (788 aircraft)
The MiG-29, a Soviet-built fighter jet designed to compete with the F-16, remains a key player in many air forces with 788 aircraft in service. Despite many being retired, the MiG-29 continues to be used in Russia, India, Ukraine, and several other countries. Russia operates the largest fleet, with 236 aircraft in the Air Force and 18 in the Navy.

6. Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II (712 aircraft)
The F-35 Lightning II, a fifth-generation stealth fighter, ranks sixth with 712 aircraft in service. Designed to replace older jets like the F-16 and F/A-18, the F-35 is in use by the U.S. and allied countries such as Australia, Italy, and the UK. With continued production and upgrades, the F-35 is expected to rise further in the ranks in the coming years.

7. Chengdu J-7 (650 aircraft)
The Chengdu J-7, a Chinese-made fighter based on the Soviet MiG-21, has been in production since 1965. With 650 aircraft still in service, the J-7 is primarily used by China, although it has been exported to countries like Bangladesh, Iran, and Pakistan. The J-7 is being phased out by some countries but remains an important asset for others.

8. Eurofighter Typhoon (533 aircraft)
The Eurofighter Typhoon, a modern multirole fighter jet, ranks eighth with 533 active aircraft. Produced by Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, the Typhoon is used by several European countries, including the UK, Germany, and Italy. It has also been exported to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait. The Typhoon is still in production, with hundreds more expected to be delivered.

9. Sukhoi Su-24 (399 aircraft)
The Sukhoi Su-24, known as the “Fencer” by NATO, remains in service with 399 aircraft. A supersonic bomber with a unique side-by-side seating arrangement, the Su-24 is used by Russia, Ukraine, and Syria. Russia operates the largest fleet, but the aircraft’s role in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has led to numerous losses.

10. Sukhoi Su-25 Grach (379 aircraft)
The Su-25, also known as the “Frogfoot,” is a Soviet-era jet developed for close air support. With 379 aircraft in service, the Su-25 has seen extensive use in conflicts around the world, including the Soviet-Afghan War and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Russia operates the largest fleet, with 183 Su-25s in service.

These top 10 fighter jets represent a mix of cutting-edge technology and older, yet reliable, models still serving key roles in air forces across the globe. From the versatile F-16 to the stealthy F-35, these aircraft are central to maintaining air superiority and readiness in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.

Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/aircraft-finance/