Various authorities and organisations have classified fighter jets into generations. Typically, these generation designations are based on technological leaps. But, this definition is much more subjective than it might seem. It is common for aircraft to exhibit both characteristics from each generation.
Gen 1. The first jet fighters were classified. First generation fighters like the Meteor entered service in World War II. Hawker Hunter, McDonnell F2H Banshees and Folland Gnat were all part of this generation. These jets were faster than their piston-engine predecessors.
The next generation of fighter planes was created with multi-role capability. They were to carry a wide range of armaments such as laser-guided missiles and pulse radar. They would also be expected to be more maneuverable, and to have a longer range. The use of radars to fire beyond visual range was also expected, as was the ability to engage in air-to-air interception.
Next generation fighters would also be expected to have radars capable of shooting down enemy aircraft. They were also expected faster and to turn more quickly than the first-generation aircraft. They would also have laser-guided Bombs and terrain-warning Systems. They will have radars with higher accuracy that can fire at targets beyond visible range. Additionally, they will be capable of flying to shallow dives in order to reach super-cruise.
Fourth-generation fighters were built with thinner control surfaces. They also had swept-back wings. They could also fly at high speeds. They could also carry nuclear-tipped missiles air-to-air. Their engines could reach Mach 2 speeds. Both the North American F-86 Sabre (USA) and the F-86 Sabre (North America) were outstanding fighters in this generation.
The fifth generation of fighters features all-aspect stealth, active electronically scan array radars and internal carriage precision weapons. They are also capable of performing air-to-ground missions. These aircraft are equipped with sixth generation gas-turbine engine, which has more power than its predecessors. They are also able to sustain high-G flight and maintain low 70 knots at angles of attack.
The fifth generation fighters comes with integrated avionics and data fusion systems. These systems enable the aircraft to communicate with many sensors and drones. The F-35 is a highly advanced data fusion platform in combat. It is also one the few fifth-generation fighters with super-cruise ability.
These fighters are also known for their superior performance and high thrust-to-weight ratio. They can maintain high-G flight over extended periods of time, and can also perform air-to–air or air-to–ground missions. They can also perform air-to-ground strafing operations. They also have sophisticated integrated avionics systems and low-observable "stealth” techniques. They can also be used to provide a network hub for other assets.
Fifth generation fighters today are more advanced than their predecessors. F-22 Raptor has been the first of these fighters to be produced and is currently in service. Although it isn't the most advanced fighter, it is still a great choice. When it becomes operational, the F-35 Lightning II will be joining the 5th generation fighter club.