Fifth-generation fighters are a class for jet fighter aircraft. This class includes fighters that incorporate major technologies developed in the early part of the 21st century. These aircraft are expected be in service by 2022. The Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor is one of them, as well as China's HAL FGFAFA and Russia’s Sukhoi Su-57.
Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor
Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor Fighter Aircraft is the fifth generation. In 2005, the aircraft was in service and won the Collier Trophy 2006. There has been much controversy about the F-22's cost and suitability for post-Cold War environments. The F-22 was built to be the most powerful fighter in its class and was meant to replace the Soviet-made Sukhoi Su-30 MKI. However, the collapse of the Soviet Union ruined that plan. In 2009, the U.S. Department of Defense declared that the F-22 production would cease at 187 aircraft. In 2012, the Air Force received the last Raptor and it flew its maiden 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 fly 1,600 miles. 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. The aircraft is scheduled to enter service in 2022. The FGFA boasts 43 improvements over current PAK FA. This includes stealth, supercruise, advanced sensors, combat avionics, and advanced radar.
The FGFA project has been in development for over a decade. The Su-57 was the original inspiration for the FGFA. It was also known as the T-50 FA or PAK FA. Russian Air Force currently has Su-57s in production.
Russia's Sukhoi Su-57
A fifth-generation Su-57 fighter aircraft is intended for one pilot. This is a significant feature due to the plane's high automation level. 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 some challenges. The jet currently lacks a second-generation engine, low-observable theft technology, advanced avionics, and sensor capabilities. Russian Air Force delayed delivery until the 2020s due to these issues. 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. Initial plans for the Russian MOD to acquire 60 Su-57s of production-standard by 2020 were canceled. Due to West-imposed sanctions, the number of Su-57s has dropped to 150 to 160. Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently stated that the Russian Air Force intends to purchase 76 Su-57s before 2028.
Pakistan's HAL FGFA
Production of the HAL FGFA 5th-generation fighter was scheduled to start in 2019. It is expected to cost over $6 billion. Avionics were $100 million each, making them one of the most costly parts of this fighter. In October 2012, India reduced its purchase order to 144 fighter aircraft. Its launch raised questions about its reliability.
Pakistan's Air Force then announced plans to build a fifth generation fighter airplane. Project Azm is an ambitious project that will see the country build a city for research, manufacturing, education and the development of modern fighter planes. This is a significant step towards Pakistan’s goal of exporting its defense hardware to developing countries.