5th Generation Fighter Jets and Their Role in 21st Century Military Strategy

Abstract

Fifth-generation fighter jets are revolutionary aircraft that represent the cutting edge of modern
aviation technology. These aircraft have made a huge leap forward compared to previous generations with
technological innovations that have fundamentally changed the paradigms of traditional air warfare.
Features such as stealth technology, advanced sensor fusion, network-centric warfare capabilities, and
high situational awareness have transformed these aircraft into not only air superiority platforms but also
critical elements of information warfare. The most distinctive feature of this generation of aircraft is their
low radar signature, achieved through exterior coatings that minimize radar wave reflection and internal
weapon bays. Artificial intelligence-enabled mission computers, advanced electronic warfare and
countermeasure systems, and software that integrates data from multiple sensors to reduce pilot workload
make these aircraft truly intelligent systems. The number of countries with this technology is quite limited
worldwide. While the United States maintains its leadership with the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II,
China's Chengdu J-20, Russia's Su-57, and Turkey's KAAN (TF-X) project are significant developments
in this field. Turkey has taken a significant step toward becoming the fourth country to possess this
technology with its successful first flight in 2023.