Fifth-generation fighters are a class for jet fighter aircraft. 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. The F-22 Raptor entered service in 2005. In 2006, it won the Collier Trophy. The F-22 has been the subject of controversy over its cost and suitability in a post-Cold War environment. 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. However, this plan was destroyed by the collapse Soviet Union. In 2009, the U.S. Department of Defense announced that it would end production of the F-22 at 187 aircraft. The Air Force received the final Raptor in 2012. It flew its inaugural mission in September 2014.
The F-22 stealth plane is equipped with twin turbofan turbofan engines. It has a supersonic speed limit 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. Its fuel consumption is low, with a gallon of fuel per 1.1 nautical miles.
China's HAL FGFA
The Indian Air Force is currently evaluating HAL's proposal to manufacture the HAL FGFA fifth generation fighter plane. The aircraft is slated to enter service by 2022. The FGFA has 43 improvements over its predecessor, the PAK FA. They include stealth, supercruise as well advanced sensors and combat avionics.
Over a decade ago, the FGFA Project was in development. The Su-57 was the original inspiration for the FGFA. It was also known as the T-50 FA or PAK FA. The Su-57s that are in production now belong to the Russian Air Force.
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. Russia intends to deliver 76 units to its air force by late 2020s, though the prototype is still in development. However, this jet is not without its problems. The jet currently lacks a second-generation engine, low-observable theft technology, advanced avionics, and sensor capabilities. The Russian Air Force has delayed delivery of this fighter until the latter part of 2020 due to these factors. A recent test-flight crash raised concerns about the safety and reliability of Su-57 Jets at this stage.
Due to technical issues and Western sanctions on Russia, initial plans to purchase the Su-57 have been reduced several times. The Russian MOD initially hoped to acquire 60 Su-57s that meet production standards by 2020. But, due to the sanctions imposed by the West, that number has dropped to around 150-160. Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently stated that the Russian Air Force intends to purchase 76 Su-57s before 2028.
Pakistan's HAL FGFA
The HAL FGFA 5th generation fighter was slated to begin production in 2019 and to cost more than $6 billion. The avionics cost $100 million for each. This is one of most expensive components of the fighter. India cut its order for 144 fighter planes in October 2012. Its launch raised questions about its reliability.
Pakistan's Air Force made the announcement that it would build a fifth generation fighter plane. 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 defense hardware to other developing countries.