In the realm of aerial warfare, speed is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity. For fighter jets, whether they are designed for air superiority, rapid interception, or versatile multirole missions, the ability to swiftly reach operational zones is paramount. The sheer velocity of these machines dictates engagement times, evasion tactics, and overall mission success.
When discussing the pinnacle of speed in fighter aviation, the Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25 often tops the list, boasting a staggering speed of Mach 2.83. Its sibling, the MiG-31, mirrors this incredible velocity. However, these titans of speed are largely relics of a bygone era, with only a handful of MiG-25s reportedly still in service globally.
For modern, combat-ready fighter jets that are actively deployed worldwide, the F-15 Eagle emerges as the speed champion. With over 900 currently in operation, the F-15 continues to be upgraded, with the cutting-edge F-15EX variant engineered to push the boundaries of speed even further.
Unveiling the Top 10 Fastest Fighter Jets in the World
The following table ranks the ten fastest fighter jets, showcasing their maximum speeds in Mach and miles per hour, alongside their service ceilings, offering a comprehensive look at their high-altitude performance capabilities.
| Rank | Aircraft | Max Speed (Mach) | Max Speed (mph) | Max Altitude (Service Ceiling) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25 | Mach 2.83 | 1,900 mph | 80,000 ft |
| 2 | Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-31 | Mach 2.83 | 1,900 mph | 67,000 ft |
| 3 | McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle | Mach 2.5 | 1,650 mph | 60,000 ft |
| 4 | Sukhoi Su-27 Family | Mach 2.35 | 1,600 mph | 59,000 ft |
| 5 | Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23 | Mach 2.35 | 1,553 mph | 60,000 ft |
| 6 | Grumman F-14 Tomcat | Mach 2.3 | 1,544 mph | 55,000 ft |
| 7 | Mikoyan MiG-29 | Mach 2.3 | 1,520 mph | 59,000 ft |
| 8 | IAI Kfir | Mach 2.3 | 1,520 mph | 58,000 ft |
| 9 | Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor | Mach 2.25 | 1,500 mph | 65,000 ft |
| 10 | McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II | Mach 2.23 | 1,470 mph | 62,000 ft |
USAF
Understanding Fighter Jet Speed Measurement
It’s crucial to understand that the maximum speed figures quoted for fighter jets are often obtained under ideal test conditions. These “clean configurations” mean the aircraft is stripped of weapons and external fuel tanks. Such tests demonstrate the absolute potential of the airframe. In typical operational scenarios, fighter jets fly considerably slower due to payload, mission profile, and fuel consumption considerations.
Furthermore, peak speeds are usually achieved at optimal altitudes, typically above 30,000 feet (9,000 meters). Many of these high-speed jets are significantly slower at lower altitudes due to denser air resistance. Therefore, while top speed is a fascinating metric, it’s only one aspect of a fighter jet’s overall performance.
Let’s delve deeper into each of these incredible machines, counting down from tenth to first, providing more detailed insights into what makes them some of the fastest aircraft ever to grace the skies.
10. McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II
Mach 2.23 (1,470 mph / 2,370 kph / 1,280 kts at 40,000 ft / 12,000 m)
| F-4 Phantom II Specifications |
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The F-4 Phantom is an icon of the Cold War era. While largely retired, some air forces, including Turkey, Greece, and Iran, continue to operate this legendary aircraft, according to the 2025 World Air Forces directory. South Korea recently retired its F-4E Phantoms in 2024, marking the end of an era for this operator.
Despite its boxy, less-than-aerodynamic appearance, the F-4 Phantom achieves impressive speeds thanks to the sheer power of its twin General Electric J79 engines. This brute force approach led to the famous saying among Phantom pilots and enthusiasts: “A brick can fly if you stick a big enough engine on it.”
Initially, the F-4 was designed without an internal gun, based on the flawed intelligence assessment that missile technology had rendered dogfights obsolete. Its primary role was envisioned as fleet defense, relying on air-to-air missiles for long-range engagements and Sidewinder missiles for closer encounters.
However, combat realities quickly demonstrated the enduring importance of close-quarters dogfighting. The F-4 was subsequently modified to accommodate external gun pods, showcasing its adaptability. Theoretically, it could carry up to five gun pods, though this configuration was never practically employed.
9. Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor
Mach 2.25 (1,500 mph / 2,414 kph / 1,303 kts at 40,000 ft / 12,000 m)
| F-22 Raptor Specifications |
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The F-22 Raptor stands out as the first operational fifth-generation fighter and the only stealth aircraft on this list. Production was limited to fewer than 200 Raptors, and it has never been offered for export. The US Air Force (USAF) remains the sole operator of this advanced fighter.
USAF
While many older jets on this list struggle to break the sound barrier at low altitudes, the F-22 Raptor is exceptional. It can exceed Mach 1.2 at sea level and maintain high speeds even when fully armed. This is due to its internal weapons bays, which minimize drag compared to external stores.
The F-22 also possesses supercruise capability, enabling it to sustain speeds above Mach 1.8 without engaging fuel-guzzling afterburners. Supercruise enhances fuel efficiency and extends operational range, crucial for modern combat scenarios.
8. IAI Kfir
Mach 2.3 (1,520 mph / 2,440 kph / 1,320 kts at 36,000 ft / 11,000 m)
| IAI Kfir Specifications |
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The Kfir, an Israeli-engineered upgrade of the Dassault Mirage 5, is currently in service with Colombia and Airborne Tactical Advantage Company (ATAC), the tactical flight training arm of Textron.
A key enhancement of the Kfir is its General Electric J79-J1E turbojet engine, a significant upgrade from the Mirage 5’s original SNECMA Atar 9C, providing a considerable boost in power and performance.
Some sources suggest a more conservative top speed of Mach 2 for the Kfir. Given the age of the existing Kfir airframes, achieving the originally stated Mach 2.3 top speed might be challenging for current models.
However, substantial evidence supports the Mach 2.3 figure, indicating that the Kfir has indeed reached this speed in the past, justifying its inclusion in this ranking of high-speed fighter jets.
7. Mikoyan MiG-29
Mach 2.3 (1,520 mph / 2,450 kph / 1,320 kts at 36,000 ft / 11,000 m)
| MiG-29 Specifications |
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The MiG-29, developed in the Soviet Union as a lighter counterpart to the Sukhoi Su-27 and as a direct response to the American F-16, has seen widespread export and remains in service across numerous nations, including Russia, Ukraine, North Korea, Poland, and India.
IanC66 Shutterstock
Often compared to the F-16, the MiG-29 primarily served as a point-defense interceptor. This role emphasized speed and agility over long range, resulting in a relatively shorter operational radius but high velocity.
While the MiG-29 has limitations, such as being unable to achieve supersonic speeds with external fuel tanks, a clean configuration allows it to reach Mach 1.2 at sea level.
Nicknamed ‘Fulcrum,’ the MiG-29 is renowned for its exceptional maneuverability, partly attributed to its widely spaced engines. It is the fifth most prevalent fighter jet currently in service globally, with 788 active aircraft documented in the 2025 World Air Forces directory.
6. Grumman F-14 Tomcat
Mach 2.3 (1,544 mph / 2,485 kph / 1,342 kts at 40,000 ft / 12,000 m)
| F-14 Tomcat Specifications |
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Widely regarded as the world’s first fourth-generation fighter jet, the F-14 Tomcat was primarily designed for the US Navy. Although retired by the US Navy in favor of the F/A-18, the F-14 remains operational with the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force, which reportedly maintains 41 Tomcats in service, as per the 2025 World Air Forces directory.
Grumman F-14 Tomcat with wings swept back, showcasing its variable-sweep wing design.
Known as the ‘Tomcat,’ this carrier-capable, twin-engine supersonic fighter features a distinctive variable-sweep wing design. It entered US Navy service in 1974 aboard the USS Enterprise, replacing the F-4 Phantom II, and was officially retired by the US Navy on September 22, 2006.
During the Iran-Iraq War, Iran claimed its F-14s were highly successful, reportedly shooting down at least 160 Iraqi aircraft while sustaining losses of only 16 Tomcats (seven due to accidents). Despite Iran’s fleet of 41, serviceability is likely impacted by sanctions-related spare part shortages.
In operational use, Tomcat pilots consistently reported achieving the advertised Mach 2.3 speed, even with a full combat load. Anecdotal evidence suggests a clean F-14 could exceed this speed. Dave Andersen, a former F-14 Radar Intercept Officer, recounted on Quora:
“That jet accelerated like it was blasted out of a cannon. In maybe 50 seconds we went from about 400 knots and reached the advertised top speed of Mach 2.34, and the jet was still accelerating. I’m sure she would’ve gone past 2.5 Mach if we’d let her, but backed off at that point because we were getting close to “bingo” fuel state.”
5. Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23
Mach 2.35 (1,553 mph / 2,499 kph / 1,349 kts at 36,000 ft / 11,000 m)
| MiG-23 Specifications |
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Another swing-wing fighter, the MiG-23, designed in the early 1960s, remains operational in several countries, including North Korea, Syria, Kazakhstan, Libya, and various African nations. The 2025 World Air Forces directory indicates that 187 MiG-23s are still in service globally.
Wikimedia
Primarily designed as an interceptor, the MiG-23, known as ‘Flogger,’ is less maneuverable than later fourth-generation fighters and exhibits relatively weaker performance at low altitudes. However, it was a highly advanced aircraft for its time and remains a significant symbol of Soviet Cold War aviation technology.
The MiG-23’s variable-sweep wing provides versatility, enabling takeoff from shorter, less prepared runways and optimizing its aerodynamic profile for both supersonic and efficient cruise flight. Its advanced radar and fire control systems allowed engagement of targets at beyond-visual ranges, a crucial capability for its interceptor role.
4. Sukhoi Su-27
Mach 2.35 (1,600 mph / 2,500 kph / 1,300 kts at 36,000 ft / 11,000 m)
| Su-27 Specifications |
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The Su-27 was a pivotal late-Cold War fighter, spawning a family of advanced aircraft, including the Su-30, Su-34, Su-35, J-11, and J-16.
It ranks among the most widely operated fighter jets worldwide. While various Su-27 derivatives are often credited with top speeds between Mach 2 and Mach 2.35, newer variants may not reach these speeds due to design modifications prioritizing other performance aspects. We’ll explore the reasons behind this trend later in this article.
Sukhoi Su-27 in flight, highlighting its large size and twin-engine configuration.
Unlike some fourth-generation counterparts, the Su-27 cannot achieve Mach 1.2 at sea level, and external ordnance significantly reduces its top speed. However, designed not as a dedicated interceptor but as an air superiority fighter, its high-altitude speed is a consequence of powerful engines intended for high payload capacity and rapid acceleration.
The Su-27/30/34/35 family is the second most prevalent in-service fighter jet type in 2025, second only to the F-16, with 1,284 aircraft listed in the 2025 World Air Forces directory, operated by major air forces including China, India, and Russia.
3. McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle
Mach 2.5 (1,650 mph / 2,655 kph / 1,434 kts at 40,000 ft / 12,000 m)
| F-15 Eagle Specifications |
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Likely the most recognizable US-made fighter jet, the F-15 is operated by the USAF and allied nations including Israel, Japan, Qatar, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore. It is the third most widely deployed fighter globally, with 919 in service according to the 2025 World Air Forces directory.
USAF
The F-15 was specifically developed in response to the MiG-25 interceptor (featured later in this list). While slightly slower than its Soviet counterpart, the F-15 Eagle compensates with exceptional low-speed maneuverability, making it a formidable air-to-air combat platform.
Notably, the F-15 is the only fighter jet to have successfully destroyed a space satellite, and uniquely holds a combat record of over 100 aerial victories with zero air-to-air losses, a testament to its dominance.
Despite its original design dating back over 50 years, the F-15 remains in production as the significantly enhanced F-15EX, also known as the F-15 Eagle II, ensuring its continued relevance in modern air warfare.
2. Mikoyan MiG-31
Mach 2.83 (1,900 mph / 3,000 kph / 1,600 kts at 70,538 ft / 21,500 m)
| MiG-31 Specifications |
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The MiG-31 was developed as a successor to the MiG-25, designed to supersede its predecessor. Performance-wise, the two are closely matched, with the MiG-31 boasting superior sensors, avionics, and weaponry.
Kazakhstan retired its MiG-31 fleet in 2024, leaving Russia as the sole operator. The Russian Air Force currently operates 128 MiG-31s, according to the 2025 World Air Forces directory.
Initially conceived for greater versatility than the MiG-25, the MiG-31 was planned to have multirole, bomber, and reconnaissance variants. While these specific variants were not fully realized, the development process resulted in the MiG-31 possessing improved low-altitude performance compared to the MiG-25. It can achieve Mach 1.25 at sea level, a capability lacking in earlier interceptors.
However, despite numerous modernizations, certain limitations impact its top speed. During parliamentary hearings in 2013, Victor Bondarev, then head of the Russian Aerospace Forces, revealed that the MiG-31’s upgraded cockpit glass, while enhancing visibility, has reduced its maximum speed to Mach 1.5.
“Those 2.83 Mach that this plane produced are limited; it no longer flies at 2.83 Mach, it flies at only 1.5 Mach, for one simple reason – the glass can’t handle it. It turns out that we can’t produce glass in Russia.”
Despite this speed limitation, the MiG-31 remains a potent platform due to its advanced armament, including the Kinzhal hypersonic missile, emphasizing capability over sheer speed.
1. Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25
Mach 2.83 (1,900 mph / 3,000 kph / 1,600 kts at 70,538 ft / 21,500 m)
| MiG-25 Specifications |
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Designed in the late 1960s, the MiG-25 – NATO codename ‘Foxbat’ – was arguably the most feared fighter jet of the Cold War, directly prompting the US to develop the F-15 Eagle. However, its current operational status is questionable.
Wikimedia
Largely retired globally, the MiG-25 officially remains in the arsenals of only two nations. The 2025 World Air Forces directory lists just four active – two in Syria and two in Libya. The combat readiness of these remaining aircraft is highly uncertain.
Nevertheless, the MiG-25 technically remains the world’s fastest fighter jet. It achieved numerous speed records, reaching velocities surpassed only by the SR-71 Blackbird and its derivatives among air-breathing jets.
The MiG-25 was specifically engineered as a high-altitude interceptor. Like many aircraft of this type, it suffered from poor maneuverability and could not break the sound barrier at sea level when carrying missiles, reflecting a design focus purely on high-speed, high-altitude interception.
The Fastest Deployed Fighter Jet Today
While the MiG-25 is essentially retired, and the MiG-31’s top speed is practically limited by its cockpit glass, the F-15 Eagle emerges as the fastest operational fighter jet currently in active service worldwide.
F-15EX Eagle II in flight, showcasing its modern upgrades and powerful engines.
Its latest iteration, the F-15EX, is projected to be even faster. Aviation Week quoted Boeing’s Rob Novotny, a former F-15 test pilot and now executive director of F-15 Business Development, suggesting a clean F-15EX could theoretically reach Mach 2.9. However, this remains a theoretical maximum not yet publicly demonstrated.
The War Zone reported a Boeing clarification that the F-15EX, in clean configuration, achieved Mach 2.497 in testing. With twin General Electric F110-GE-129 engines, each producing 29,500 pounds of thrust in full afterburner, the airframe and engines are capable of exceeding Mach 2.5. However, factors like paint durability, antenna integrity at extreme speeds, and rapid fuel consumption at such velocities become limiting factors in practical applications.
Boeing
Despite its age, continuous upgrades have maintained the F-15’s relevance and effectiveness, showcasing how a well-designed airframe can evolve to meet modern combat demands.
The Shift Away from Extreme Speed in Modern Fighter Design
You might notice that most of the fighter jets on this list are relatively older designs. Newer generations of fighter aircraft, with the exception of the F-22, rarely claim speeds exceeding Mach 2.
The emphasis on sheer speed has diminished in modern fighter jet design. Maneuverability, stealth, sensor fusion, and fuel efficiency have become more critical performance parameters. Speed has been deliberately traded for these enhanced capabilities.
Studies indicate that fighter jets rarely operate above Mach 1.2 in actual combat scenarios. Higher speeds are primarily relevant for long-range interception roles, which the top jets on this list, the F-15 and MiG-31, are designed to perform.
Advancements in medium- and long-range missile technology further reduce the necessity for extreme close-range speed. Consequently, Cold War-era interceptors remain the fastest fighter jets ever built, while contemporary designs prioritize a balanced performance envelope. Even projected sixth-generation fighters are expected to have maximum speeds in the Mach 2.2 – 2.5 range, indicating a definitive shift in design philosophy. As the saying goes, “they don’t make them like they used to.”
Honorable Mentions: Mach 2.05-2.2 Fighters
Several popular fighter jets achieve speeds slightly above Mach 2, but fall just short of our top ten list. These include:
- General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon
- Mikoyan-Gurevich Mig-21
- Dassault Mirage 2000
- Dassault Mirage F1
Honorable Mentions: Mach 2 Fighters
Many currently operational fighter jets have a top speed of Mach 2 (approximately 1,300-1,360 mph / 2,100-2,200 kph / 1,100-1,150 knots), representing a significant segment of modern air combat capabilities.
