Comparison of the best aircraft (5th generation). 5th generation aircraft

2024 Author: Howard Calhoun | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 10:16

5th generation aircraft are three world-famous models: the Russian T-50, the American F-22 (Raptor) and the Chinese J-20 (Black Eagle). It is these countries that, in the event of any serious global situations, will be able to influence the geopolitical situation in the world. Which model is better and who can capture the airspace?

In war as in war

Today we can say that many countries are waging a large-scale war, in which the main role is played not by weapons, but by innovative technologies and ultra-precise weapons. In this context, military aviation, namely its 5th generation, plays an important role. The Russian-made T-50 aircraft may well become a worthy competitor to other air vehicles. These cutting-edge models feature:

1. Easy destruction of strategic enemy targets.
2. The ability to paralyze the entire defense industry of a country.

Let's look at these three vehicles in more detail to understand what different countries offer as their reliable weapons.

T-50 PAK FA (Russia): how it all began

Aircraft of the 5th generation began to be developed not so long ago, and at first the design was carried out by fighter design bureaus back in the Soviet Union. It was in the 80s that full-scale work began on the production of a multifunctional fighter. First of all, it was planned to create a long-range interceptor that could become a worthy replacement for the Su-27 and MiG-31. The main requirements for the model were the following:

• multifunctionality, that is, the ability to act on any type of target - air, ground and surface;
• low visibility in any spectrum - from visual to thermal and electromagnetic;
• unique maneuverability, which would allow the implementation of unconventional techniques and tactical elements of air combat;
• expanded range of possible flight modes;
• supersonic flight speed.

First lumpy plane

Before the Russian 5th generation aircraft appeared, they underwent all sorts of improvements. So, first, the Su-47 was nominated as the main interceptor fighter, then the promising Su-27KM fighter. However, none of these models could in any way be among the fifth generation. That is why in 1998 a new terms of reference was drawn upto create a unique fighter. During this time, many models were thought out, only by 2001 the promising aviation complex of front-line aviation PAK FA was thought out.

Successful progress

The first aircraft of the 5th generation of Russia began to be produced in Komsomolsk-on-Amur in 2006. By 2009, three technical samples were created, after which they were tested. The first flight was carried out already in 2010, which made it possible to identify problems with the steering and braking system. As noted in the developers' reports, this model is characterized by simplicity and ease of maintenance, the ability to develop speed without afterburner, maneuverability with high overloads and ste alth.

In those days, only the United States and Russia could boast that they had 5th generation aircraft in their arsenal. There were rumors that the Chinese were also planning to create a new product. Looking ahead, let's say that they did create it - and in terms of its characteristics, it was in no way inferior to its American and Russian counterparts.

Advantages of the T-50 PAK FA

As noted by many experts, the fifth generation of Russian aircraft has unique features. First of all, the models are attractive in that they perform the functions of both a fighter and an attack aircraft. In addition, the new avionics suite integrates an electronic pilot function. Aircraft of the 5th generation of Russia are equipped with a promising radar station, which is complemented by a phased antenna array. Its feature is the reductionload on the pilot, who can concentrate and perform tactical tasks.

PAK FA equipment

Supernova fighters, created in Russia, are equipped with unique on-board equipment. Its peculiarity is that it is possible to exchange data online, and communication is carried out both with ground control systems and within the aviation group. Thanks to the use of modern materials and unique technologies, Russian military aircraft of the 5th generation are distinguished by an aerodynamic layout and a low level of various degrees of detection. Thanks to this, the combat effectiveness of aircraft against various types of targets is increased. The design of the model is made in such a way as to minimize the visibility of the aircraft. The PAK FA engine consists of 80% new parts, which made it possible to increase the reliability and durability of the resource.

T-50 is a 5th generation aircraft that belongs to the heavy class. A novelty in Russian engine building is a plasma ignition system, which provides oxygen-free engine start. Also, for the first time, digital control was used on domestic-made aircraft: this system is mobile and flexible. As for weapons, it is planned to equip the PAK FA with weapons outside and inside the suspension.

Weapon Features

T-50 is a 5th generation aircraft that will be able to fight at different distances. To do this, it is equipped with missiles of various types. The use of modern achievements will make it possible to detect air and groundfacilities with greater efficiency. Also, the model will be equipped with a unified information system for combat use and control in order to exchange data with other aircraft. Of the novelties, the aircraft will receive a navigation system based on GPS / GLONASS navigation, as well as REM, EW and suppression of the infrared seeker and remote fuses of enemy missiles, EDSU, an in-flight refueling system, and a two-dome braking parachute.

Foreign experts have come to the conclusion that the newest Russian aircraft of the 5th generation is a real success for engineers who were able to design such an inconspicuous unit.

F-22 ("Raptor") USA

This aircraft may well be considered the best aircraft of the 21st century. This is due to the fact that in this model, the developers were able to embody the latest delights in the field of aviation. The F / A-22 combat aircraft began to be designed in 1991, and it was created on the basis of modern computer-aided design tools. American 5th generation aircraft are considered the most powerful and strong in the world, as they are distinguished by long flight at supersonic speeds and can show unique tactics.

Compared to the Russian aircraft, the F/A-22 has a thrust vector control system, resulting in improved maneuverability. This (as well as the high level of electronic equipment) made this model the most powerful in the world. However, many experts note that Russian 5th generation aircraft may well compete with their American counterparts in terms of power andreliability.

It is noted that the defensive complex of the Russian aircraft solves many problems with the identification of objects with high accuracy, although the equipment of the Raptor resembles that of attack aircraft. The American aircraft, in turn, can boast of being equipped with a new generation of adjustable bombs, which are equipped with an inertial satellite guidance system.

Raptor equipment

To make the aircraft less visible, the developers have equipped it with a passive mode system. American military aircraft of the 5th generation "Raptor" are able to detect a large air target at a distance of up to 300 km, ground - up to 70 km. The cockpit has a wide-angle HUD with a large field of view, which also distinguishes the Russian aircraft. Of the weapons, one can note the built-in cannon Mb 1A2 (ammunition - 480 shells), four air-to-air missiles, 6 AIM-120C missiles and two missiles in compartments. A number of missiles are located on the wing liners of the aircraft.

The American aircraft became the first fighter aircraft to be fully equipped with an integrated airborne equipment system. It includes a central integrated data processing system, a communications system, navigation, ICNIA identification and an electronically controlled combat complex.

J-20 ("Black Eagle")

If Russian aircraft of the 5th generation are well-known, then Chinese-made models are only conquering the world. So, the J-20 model is a heavy fighter, created according to the "duck" scheme. However, according toits technical characteristics can not be compared with either the Russian or the American model. So, experts note that the Chinese aircraft has problems with aerodynamics, its flight range is small compared to our model, and the design that has not been brought to mind increases the radar visibility of the unit. The main problem of Chinese fighters is the lack of engines. It turns out that a heavy, overall and well-marked aircraft has neither maneuverability nor reliability in operation. Accordingly, the latest 5th generation Russian aircraft and the American Raptor remain the most reliable in the world.

Comparative analysis

Let's compare two models - Russian and American production:

Tactical and technical characteristics	Russian T-50	American "Raptor"
Crew	1 person	1 person
Wing area	78, 8 sqm	78 sqm
Flight duration	3, 3 hours	3 hours
Max speed	2, Mach 6	2, Mach 4
Flying range	2200 km	5500 km
Maximum takeoff weight	37000 kg	38000 kg
Combat ceiling	19, 2km	18 km

Conclusions: who is better?

The latest high-powered fighter jets are currently only available in the US and Russia. Who will prevail if the planes collide in the air? The answer to this question is not so simple. On the one hand, the American fighter has been in service for a long time, while our model is only undergoing flight tests. On the other hand, the Russian aircraft has a more advanced design, which makes it more maneuverable. Russian developers also focus on the fact that the T-50 aircraft can carry a larger supply of fuel, so it will be more perfect than the American model in terms of practical range and combat radius. In any case, the performance of both models will be constantly improved, so it is still difficult to draw a clear conclusion about who is stronger.