The F-15 Eagle has anchored U.S. and allied air superiority for nearly five decades. Designed, built and introduced by McDonnell Douglas in 1976, this just was made for speed and firepower. The twin-engine Eagle can hit speeds over Mach 2.5 and is armed to the teeth. It still remains a frontline asset for the U.S. Air Force from the Middle East to Asia.
Fifth-generation fighter jets are the most advanced in the skies, boasting low observability, or stealth, as well as advanced sensors and avionics. Some also feature advanced networking. The American F-22 Raptor entered service in the early 2000s. The newest US fifth-gen fighter is the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter, another Lockheed Martin aircraft that is operated by both the US and its allies and partners. Russia is developing the Su-57, and China has the J-20 and J-35, the latter supporting new carrier advancements.
The Jet Age began in the wake of World War 2, when technology made a massive leap and more fighter aircraft began incorporating jet engines to their design. Aerial combat evolved in kind. While there were less dog fights and engagements overall, the military doctrine of air superiority reigned supreme. Better tech and design gave way to many of the iconic fighter aircraft we know today. Here, 24/7 Wall St. is taking a look at some of the most lethal aircraft of the Jet Age.
