Some of today's military aircraft (e.g., B-52 Stratofortress, KC-135 tanker, or C-130 transport) are based on original designs from the 1950s. They have been updated and improved over the years, but the fundamental structures remain similar to the original versions. However, modern fighters like the F-35, Rafale, Typhoon, J-20, or Su-57 are entirely new designs. Despite the latest technology and military advancements seen in fifth-generation fighter jets, today's militaries regularly purchase updated or re-manufactured variants of aircraft created more than 50 years ago.
To determine the fastest fighter jets in the world, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed a catalog of fighter jets from Military Factory, an online database of small arms, aircraft, and other military assets. We ranked these fighter jets in terms of top speed. We included supplementary information regarding the type of aircraft, year entered service, and armament. Here is a look at some of the fastest and most iconic fighter jets in the world: