In 2024, China boasted an estimated 3,300 combat aircraft in its military fleet, while India followed closely with nearly 2,300.1 These staggering numbers highlight the sheer scale of military aviation worldwide.
But which aircraft are the most popular among the world’s air forces? Here are the top 20 most widely used military aircraft on Earth, the unsung heroes that keep our skies safe and our nations secure.
1. F-16 Fighting Falcon
The F-16, nicknamed “Viper” by its pilots, is a lightweight fighter aircraft used by over 25 countries worldwide. With over 4,600 units produced, this versatile jet can reach speeds of up to 1,500 mph and altitudes of 50,000 feet.
Its adaptability for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions has made it a favorite among air forces globally.
2. C-130 Hercules
Introduced in 1956, the C-130 Hercules has been the backbone of military transport for decades. This four-engine turboprop aircraft can carry up to 42,000 pounds of cargo or 92 troops.
3. UH-60 Black Hawk
The UH-60 Black Hawk is a medium-lift utility helicopter used by the U.S. Army and numerous other countries. With a crew of 2-4 and the ability to transport up to 11 combat-equipped troops, the Black Hawk has proven its worth in various missions, from medical evacuation to special operations.
4. F/A-18 Hornet
The F/A-18 Hornet is a twin-engine, supersonic combat jet designed for carrier-based operations.
Used by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, as well as several other nations, this aircraft can switch between air-to-air and air-to-ground roles with ease. It can reach speeds of up to 1,190 mph and has a combat radius of 400 nautical miles.
5. MiG-29 Fulcrum
Developed by the Soviet Union in the 1970s, the MiG-29 remains a formidable fighter jet used by many countries worldwide.
Known for its exceptional maneuverability, the MiG-29 can reach speeds of up to Mach 2.25 and operate at altitudes up to 59,000 feet.
6. AH-64 Apache
The AH-64 Apache is an attack helicopter designed to destroy armored vehicles and provide close air support for ground troops.
Equipped with a 30mm chain gun and capable of carrying various missiles and rockets, the Apache has proven its effectiveness in multiple conflicts since its introduction in 1986.
7. Su-27 Flanker
Developed as the Soviet answer to American fourth-generation fighters, the Su-27 Flanker is a highly maneuverable air superiority fighter.
With a top speed of Mach 2.35 and a service ceiling of 62,500 feet, the Su-27 and its variants continue to serve in numerous air forces around the world.
8. CH-47 Chinook
The CH-47 Chinook is a tandem rotor helicopter used for troop movement, artillery placement, and battlefield resupply. Capable of lifting up to 24,000 pounds, this versatile helicopter has been in service since 1962 and has seen action in various conflicts worldwide.
9. Mirage 2000
Developed by Dassault Aviation, the Mirage 2000 is a lightweight multirole fighter used by several countries. Known for its delta wing design, the Mirage 2000 can reach speeds of up to Mach 2.2 and operate at altitudes up to 59,000 feet.
Its versatility and relatively low operating costs have made it a popular choice for many air forces.
10. E-3 Sentry
The E-3 Sentry, commonly known as AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System), is a modified Boeing 707 equipped with a distinctive rotating radar dome. This aircraft provides airborne surveillance, command, control, and communications functions for both tactical and air defense forces.
11. C-17 Globemaster III
The C-17 Globemaster III is a large military transport aircraft capable of rapid strategic airlift of troops and cargo to main operating bases or forward operating locations.
With a payload capacity of 170,900 pounds and the ability to operate from short, austere runways, the C-17 has become an essential part of many countries’ military logistics.
12. Tornado
Developed as a joint project between the UK, Germany, and Italy, the Panavia Tornado is a multirole combat aircraft featuring variable-sweep wings.
This design allows it to optimize performance for both high-speed, low-altitude penetration missions and long-range interdiction missions. The Tornado can reach speeds of up to Mach 2.2 and has a combat radius of over 870 miles.
13. P-3 Orion
The P-3 Orion is a long-range, anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and maritime surveillance aircraft. Developed from the Lockheed L-188 Electra commercial airliner, the P-3 has been in service since the 1960s.
With a range of over 2,380 miles and the ability to stay airborne for up to 16 hours, it has been a mainstay of maritime patrol operations for decades.
14. F-15 Eagle
The F-15 Eagle is a twin-engine, all-weather tactical fighter designed to gain and maintain air superiority in aerial combat.
With a top speed of Mach 2.5 and a service ceiling of 65,000 feet, the F-15 has an impressive combat record, with over 100 aerial combat victories and zero losses in air-to-air combat.
15. Tu-95 Bear
The Tupolev Tu-95 (NATO reporting name: Bear) is a large, four-engine turboprop-powered strategic bomber and missile platform. First flown in 1952, the Tu-95 remains in service with the Russian Air Force.
16. A-10 Thunderbolt II
Affectionately known as the “Warthog,” the A-10 Thunderbolt II is a close air support aircraft designed around its powerful 30mm GAU-8 Avenger rotary cannon.
Known for its durability and ability to operate in austere conditions, the A-10 can carry up to 16,000 pounds of mixed ordnance and has proven highly effective in supporting ground troops in various conflicts.
17. Harrier Jump Jet
The Harrier is a family of jet-powered attack aircraft capable of vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) operations. This unique ability allows it to operate from small aircraft carriers, austere airfields, and even clearings in forests.
Despite its complex design, the Harrier has served effectively with several nations’ armed forces since the 1960s.
18. E-2 Hawkeye
The E-2 Hawkeye is an all-weather, carrier-capable tactical airborne early warning (AEW) aircraft.
Featuring a distinctive 24-foot diameter rotating radar dome above its fuselage and wings, the E-2 provides long-range detection of aircraft and ships, as well as command and control capabilities for battle management.
19. KC-135 Stratotanker
The KC-135 Stratotanker is a military aerial refueling aircraft developed from the Boeing 367-80 prototype jet airliner. In service since 1957, it can carry up to 200,000 pounds of fuel for transfer to other aircraft.
The KC-135’s ability to extend the range and endurance of other military aircraft has made it an indispensable asset in modern air operations.
20. Rafale
Rounding out our list is the Dassault Rafale, a French twin-engine, multirole fighter aircraft. Introduced in 2001, the Rafale is designed for a wide range of missions, including air supremacy, interdiction, aerial reconnaissance, and nuclear deterrence.
With a top speed of Mach 1.8 and the ability to carry over 20,000 pounds of weapons, the Rafale represents the cutting edge of modern fighter technology.
Source:
1. Statista
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
