The evolution of US military fighter jets spans over several decades, showcasing remarkable advancements in technology, capabilities, and design. Each generation has brought new innovations and has been pivotal in shaping aerial combat.

From the early jets of the post-World War II era to the cutting-edge stealth fighters of today, these aircraft have played a crucial role in defending national interests and maintaining global security.

1 First Generation: early fighter jets

1940s – 1950s

The first generation of fighter jets emerged in the closing years of World War II and into the early Cold War period. These aircraft marked the transition from propeller-driven planes to jet propulsion, providing a significant boost in speed and performance.

Key features:

• Straight, unswept wings
• Wood or light alloy frames
• Manual controls and firepower, rather than electronic avionics

Notable examples include the Lockheed P-80 Shooting Star and North American F-86 Sabre. The P-80 Shooting Star was the first operational jet fighter used by the United States Air Force (USAF). Developed during World War II, it was among the first aircraft to be involved in jet-versus-jet combat and first saw active service in the Korean War.

According to Air Force Heritage Flight, the F-86 Sabre, a transonic jet fighter that excelled in dogfights against the Soviet MiG-15, was famous for its role in the Korean War. Notably, unlike the designs of other jets of its time, the Sabre was the first swept-wing fighter. Another fourth-generation example is the Republic F-84 Thunderjet. Used extensively during the Korean War, the F-84 Thunderjet was known for its versatility as a fighter-bomber.

2 Second Generation: supersonic fighters

1950s – 1960s

The second generation of jet fighters, with development spurred by the Korean War, introduced supersonic speeds and more advanced aerodynamics, per Fighterworld. These aircraft featured swept wings and afterburning engines, allowing for greater speed and improved combat performance.

Key features:

• Swept wings
• Supersonic speeds
• Increased accuracy and effectiveness via radars and guided missiles

The McDonnell F-101 Voodoo was a second-generation supersonic jet fighter that served as an interceptor and reconnaissance aircraft. It is best remembered for its high-speed capabilities.

Another example is the Convair F-102 Delta Dagger – the first operational supersonic interceptor for the USAF, featuring a delta wing design. The North American F-100 Super Sabre, also a second-generation fighter jet, was the first USAF fighter capable of supersonic speed in level flight. It was used extensively in the Vietnam War.

3 Third Generation: multirole fighters

1960s – 1970s

Third-generation fighter jets focused on versatility, with designs that could perform multiple roles, such as air-to-air combat and ground attack. Advances in avionics and missile technology also characterized this era.

Key features:

• Multirole capabilities
• Improved avionics
• Advanced missile systems

Examples of third-generation fighter jets are the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II, General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark, and Grumman F-14 Tomcat. A multirole fighter used by the USAF, Navy, and Marine Corps, the F-4 Phantom II was capable of air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, per Popular Mechanics. It served as a key aircraft in the Vietnam War.

Known for its variable-sweep wings, the F-111 Aardvark was used for ground attack, reconnaissance, and strategic bombing. The F-14 Tomcat, also famous for its variable-sweep wings and powerful radar, was a carrier-based fighter that played a critical role in US Navy operations.

4 Fourth Generation: advanced multirole fighters

1970s – 1990s

According to Sky Combat Ace, fourth-generation jets brought significant advancements in avionics, maneuverability, and weaponry. These aircraft were designed to be highly versatile and capable of performing in a variety of combat scenarios.

Key features:

• Fly-by-wire control systems
• Enhanced maneuverability
• Advanced radar and avionics

An air superiority fighter known for its incredible speed and agility, the McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle is a fourth-generation fighter jet that has maintained air dominance in numerous conflicts.

Another example is the General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon: a highly maneuverable multirole fighter. The F-16 has been widely exported and is known for its versatility and reliability. The McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet is a fourth-generation fighter known for its agility and combat effectiveness. It is a carrier-capable multirole fighter formerly used by the US Navy and currently in service with the Marine Corps.

5 Fifth Generation: stealth fighters

2000s – present

Fifth-generation fighter jets represent the pinnacle of current military aviation technology. These aircraft feature stealth capabilities, advanced avionics, and highly integrated systems, making them the most advanced and capable fighters in the world.

Key features:

• Stealth technology
• Supercruise capabilities
• Advanced sensor fusion

Popular examples of fifth-generation fighter jets are the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor, Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, and Boeing F-15EX Eagle II. The first operational fifth-generation fighter, the F-22 Raptor, excels in air superiority with its unmatched stealth, speed, and maneuverability.

The Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, on the other hand, is a family of stealth multirole fighters. The F-35 Lightning comes in three variants (F-35A, F-35B, and F-35C) and is designed for a variety of missions including ground attack, reconnaissance, and air defense, per the USAF. While based on a fourth-generation design, the F-15EX Eagle II incorporates fifth-generation avionics and capabilities, making it a formidable addition to the USAF’s fleet.

The evolution of US military fighter jets from the first to the fifth generation highlights the rapid advancements in aviation technology and the changing nature of aerial combat. Each generation has brought significant improvements in speed, maneuverability, avionics, and weaponry, ensuring that the US military remains at the forefront of air superiority.

As technology continues to advance, the future of military aviation promises even more innovative and capable aircraft, building on the legacy of these remarkable machines – and the prospect of sixth-generation jets looms on the horizon. Several nations, including the US, are already putting resources towards developing the next generation of fighter jets, per Sky Combat Ace.