Heaviest fifth-generation fighter by take-off weight
- Who
- Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor
- What
- 38,000 kilogram(s)
- Where
- United States
- When
- 15 December 2005
Fifth-generation fighter jets are characterised by possessing low probability of radar interception, advanced avionics, on board computer systems that can integrate with other units in battle and all-aspect stealth even when fully armed. As of 2016, there are still only three fifth-generation fighters in operation: the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor, the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II and the Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II. Currently, the F-22 Raptor is the heaviest, with a fully loaded take-off weight of 38,000 kg. The F-22 Raptor has a maximum range of around 2,220 km, when equipped with external fuel tanks, and is capable of supercruise – sustained supersonic flight without the use of afterburners. As the only manufacturer and user of the F-22, the USA bans any export of this aircraft in order to protect its design.
The F-22 has been in service since 15 December 2005.