A class of fighter jets is the fifth-generation fighter. This class contains fighters that include major technologies from the early 21st century. These aircraft will be available for service in 2022. Among them are the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor, China's HAL FGFA, and Russia's Sukhoi Su-57.
Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor
Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor fighter aircraft is fifth-generation. This aircraft entered service in 2005. It was awarded the Collier Trophy for its achievements in 2006. The F-22 has been controversial because of its cost and suitability to operate in post-Cold War conditions. The F-22 was made to be a superior fighter in its class. It was originally intended to replace Soviet-made Sukhoi Su-30 MKI. This plan was ruined by the collapse of Soviet Union. In 2009, the U.S. Department of Defense announced that it would end production of the F-22 at 187 aircraft. In 2012, the final Raptor was delivered by the Air Force and flew its last mission in September 2014.
The F-22 is a stealth fighter with twin turbofan engines and a supersonic speed of 2,414 km/h. It can cover 1,600 nautical mile. It climbs at impressive speeds, reaching speeds of up to 68.900 feet per minute, and 350 meters per second. It uses only one gallon of fuel for every 1.1 nautical miles.
China's HAL FGFA
HAL is currently reviewing the Indian Air Force's proposal to build the fifth-generation HAL FGFA fighter plane. It is expected to enter service in 2022. The FGFA has 43 improvements over its predecessor, the PAK FA. They include stealth, supercruise as well advanced sensors and combat avionics.
The FGFA has been in development since more than a decade. The original design was based on Su-57, also known as T-50 FA and PAK FA. It was designed to be a two-seater aircraft with pilot. This is a significant upgrade from the Su-57. Russian Air Force owns all Su-57s currently in production.
Russia's Sukhoi Su-57
The Su-57 fifth-generation fighter is built for one pilot. Although it is still an early prototype, Russia plans to deliver 76 of them to its air force by the late 2020s. The jet faces many challenges. It currently lacks a second generation engine, low-observable stealth technology and advanced avionics. Those factors have caused the Russian Air Force to delay delivery of the fighter until the late 2020s. A recent test-flight crash raised concerns about the safety and reliability of Su-57 Jets at this stage.
Due to technical problems, the initial acquisition plans for Su-57s have been rescheduled several times. The Russian MOD initially hoped to acquire 60 Su-57s that meet production standards by 2020. Due to West-imposed sanctions, the number of Su-57s has dropped to 150 to 160. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced recently that the Russian Air Force will purchase 76 Su-57s in 2028.
Pakistan's HAL FGFA
HAL FGFA 5th Generation fighters were expected to be produced in 2019 and cost more than $6 billion. The avionics are one of the most expensive parts of the fighter, costing $100 million per piece. India cut its order for 144 fighter planes in October 2012. Its launch raised questions about its reliability.
Pakistan's Air Force declared its intention to build a fifth-generation fighter jet. In an ambitious project known as Project Azm, the country is building a city dedicated to research, manufacturing, and education for the development of modern fighter jets. This is an important step towards Pakistan's goal for exporting defense hardware and technology to other developing nations.