Consider the following aircraft:

Rafael
MiG-29
Tejas MK-1

How many of the above are considered fifth generation fighter aircraft?

(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None

Correct Answer: (d) None

Rafale: The Dassault Rafale is a 4.5-generation fighter aircraft. It incorporates advanced avionics, AESA radar, and multirole capabilities but lacks the full suite of fifth-generation features such as stealth and supercruise performance .
MiG-29: The Mikoyan MiG-29 is a fourth-generation fighter aircraft. It was designed in the 1970s and entered service in the 1980s. While it has been upgraded over the years, it does not meet the criteria for fifth-generation fighters.
Tejas MK-1: The HAL Tejas is classified as a 4.5-generation fighter aircraft. It features advanced avionics and multirole capabilities but does not possess the stealth and other advanced features of fifth-generation fighters .

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Fifth-generation fighter aircraft are the most advanced fighters in operation as of the 21st century. They typically include:
- Stealth: Designed to be less visible to radar and other detection methods.
- Low-probability-of-intercept radar (LPIR): Advanced radar systems that are difficult for enemies to detect.
- Agile airframes with supercruise performance: Ability to cruise at supersonic speeds without afterburners.
- Advanced avionics: Integrated systems for enhanced situational awareness and battlefield management.
- Highly integrated computer systems: Capable of networking with other elements within the battlespace for command, control, and communications (C3) capabilities .
Examples of fifth-generation fighters include:
- Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor: Entered service with the USAF in 2005, known for its stealth, speed, and agility .
- Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II: Entered service with the USMC in 2015, featuring advanced stealth and sensor fusion capabilities .
- Chengdu J-20: Entered service with the PLAAF in 2017, incorporating stealth and advanced avionics .
- Sukhoi Su-57: Entered service with the Russian Air Force in 2020, known for its supermaneuverability and stealth features .
Fourth and 4.5-generation fighters:
- Fourth-generation fighters: Designed in the 1970s and 1980s, focusing on maneuverability and multirole capabilities. Examples include the F-15 Eagle and MiG-29 .
- 4.5-generation fighters: Upgraded versions of fourth-generation fighters with advanced avionics, AESA radar, and some stealth features. Examples include the Dassault Rafale, HAL Tejas MK-1, and Eurofighter Typhoon .