Aviation has come long since the Wright brothers first took to the skies. These planes have set records, revolutionized air travel, and played crucial roles in military operations.

In 2024, the speed race continues with aircraft breaking barriers and setting new records from iconic military jets to groundbreaking experimental aircraft these planes represent the importance of aeronautical achievement. 

In this Blog, You will get to know about the Top 15 fastest planes in the world their list, capabilities, and features, Which is the Fastest plane in the world, and the Top 10 Fastest Fighter planes in the world. So, let’s start.

Table of Contents :

• List of Top 15 Fastest Planes in the World 2024 
• Fastest Plane in the World: NASA X-43
• NASA X-15
• Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird
• Mikoyan MiG-25 Foxbat
• Lockheed YF-12
• Convair XB-70 Valkyrie
• Mikoyan MiG-31 Foxhound
• McDonnell Dougles F-15 Eagle
• Sukhoi Su-27
• MiG-23 Flogger
• Grumman F-14 Tomcat
• Mikoyan MiG-29 Fulcrum
• IAI Kfir
• Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor 
• Mc Donnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II
• Top 10 Fastest fighter planes in the world 
• Top 15 Fastest Planes in the World 2024 – FAQs

List of Top 15 Fastest Planes in the World 2024

Fastest Plane in the World: NASA X-43

The title of the fastest plane in the world belongs to the NASA X-43, an experimental scramjet vehicle. This unmanned aircraft achieved a record-breaking speed of Mach 9.6, translating to approximately 7,366 mph (11,854 km/h). 

The X-43 was an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed for research and testing. The Scramjet Engine revolutionary engine was the core of the X-43, enabling it to reach and sustain hypersonic speeds.

Key Features of NASA X-43:

• Type: Experimental scramjet vehicle
• Speed: Mach 9.6 (7,366 mph / 11,854 km/h)
• Role: Designed to test and validate scramjet technology, a type of jet engine that operates at hypersonic speeds.
• First Flight: The X-43 first flew on March 27, 2004, as part of NASA’s Hyper-X program.
• Engine: The vehicle is powered by a scramjet (supersonic combustion ramjet) engine, allowing it to achieve remarkable speeds.
• Altitude: the X-43 reached an altitude of approximately 110,000 feet (33.5 km).
• Mission Duration: Each flight of the X-43 was relatively short, typically lasting only about 10 seconds at its peak speed.

Notable Achievements:

• The NASA X-43 is part of the Hyper-X program, which aims to develop and demonstrate advanced air-breathing engine technologies.
• It set the world speed record for an aircraft powered by an air-breathing engine.

2.) NASA X-15

The X-15 was a revolutionary research aircraft jointly developed by NASA and the U.S. Air Force. Designed to push the boundaries of atmospheric flight, it was a rocket-powered plane capable of reaching hypersonic speeds. 

Experimental aircraft that achieved the highest speed ever by a winged aircraft. The NASA X-15 was a rocket-powered aircraft that achieved speeds of Mach 6.72 (4,520 mph ). Pilots of the X-15 earned astronaut wings for flights above 50 miles (80 km).

Key features include: 

• Role: Research Aircraft
• Max Speed: Mach 6.72 (approximately 4,520 mph)  
• First Flight: July 19, 1959
• Notable Features: Rocket propulsion, hypersonic capabilities, significant contribution to aerospace research.
• Altitude Record: 354,200 feet (107.8 km)
• Powerplant: XLR99 rocket engine
• Operational Period: 1959-1968
• Significance: Pioneered high-speed, high-altitude flight, providing valuable data for future spacecraft design.

3.) Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird

The SR-71 Blackbird was a long-range, high-altitude strategic reconnaissance aircraft operated by the U.S. Air Force. Renowned for its speed and ability to evade detection, it was a cornerstone of Cold War intelligence gathering. 

The SR-71 used two Pratt & Whitney J58-P4 engines, allowing it to outrun threats. It had a range of 2,900 miles (4,667 km) without refueling. Designed for surveillance, it was vital during the Cold War. It is known for its speed and altitude capabilities, it could operate at 85,000 feet (25,908 m).

Key features include:  

• Role: Reconnaissance aircraft
• Max Speed: Mach 3.2 (approximately 2,193 mph)
• First Flight: December 22, 1964  
• Notable Features: Titanium construction, high-altitude capabilities, distinctive black paint for radar absorption
• Operational Ceiling: 85,000 feet (25,908 m)
• Range: 2,900 miles (4,667 km) without refueling
• Powerplant: Pratt & Whitney J58-P4 engines
• Operational Period: 1966-1998
• Significance: Known for its unmatched speed and altitude capabilities, which made it invaluable for reconnaissance missions during the Cold War.

4.) Mikoyan MiG-25 Foxbat

The MiG-25 was a supersonic interceptor aircraft developed by the Soviet Union. Designed for high-altitude interception, it was capable of reaching remarkable speeds. The MiG-25 Foxbat is an interceptor with a top speed of Mach 3.2 (2,190 mph / 3,529 km/h). 

It was first flown in 1964 and remains in limited service today. Operates at altitudes up to 80,000 feet (24,384 m). Powered by Tumansky R-15B-300 turbojet engines. It was designed to counter the threat of high-speed aircraft like the SR-71. Known for its powerful radar and missile systems.

Key features include:  

• Role: Interceptor
• Max Speed: Mach 3.2 (approximately 2,193 mph)
• First Flight: March 5, 1964
• Notable Features: High altitude capabilities, heavy armament, large size.
• Operational Ceiling: 80,000 feet (24,384 m)
• Range: 1,075 miles (1,730 km)
• Powerplant: Tumansky R-15B-300 turbojet engines
• Operational Period: 1970-present (limited use)
• Significance: Designed to counter the threat of the SR-71 Blackbird and high-altitude bombers.

5.) Lockheed YF-12

The YF-12 was a two-seat interceptor variant of the SR-71 developed for the U.S. Air Force. Equipped with air-to-air missiles, it was designed to intercept high-altitude threats. The YF-12 was an interceptor prototype with a speed of Mach 3.2 (2,275 mph / 3,660 km/h). 

First flown in 1963, it served as a precursor to the SR-71. It had an operational ceiling of 80,000 feet (24,384 m). Powered by Pratt & Whitney J58 engines.

Key features include:  

• Role: Interceptor
• Max Speed: Mach 3.35 (approximately 2,275 mph)  
• First Flight: July 25, 1963
• Notable Features: Derivative of SR-71, two-seater configuration, advanced avionics.
• Operational Ceiling: 80,000 feet (24,384 m)
• Range: 3,000 miles (4,828 km)
• Powerplant: Pratt & Whitney J58 engines
• Operational Period: 1963-1968 (prototype phase)
• Significance: A precursor to the SR-71, intended to be a high-speed, high-altitude interceptor.

6.) Convair XB-70 Valkyrie

The XB-70 Valkyrie was an experimental supersonic bomber developed for the U.S. Air Force. Featuring a distinctive variable-geometry wing, it was designed for high-speed, high-altitude flight. The program was eventually canceled, but it contributed significantly to supersonic aircraft development. 

Could fly at altitudes of 77,350 feet (23,560 m). Powered by six General Electric YJ93-GE-3 turbojet engines. Designed to outrun interceptors, it was canceled due to high costs. The XB-70 could cover 4,288 miles (6,900 km) on a mission. It influenced future supersonic aircraft design despite its short operational life.

Key features include:  

• Role: Bomber
• Max Speed: Mach 3.0 (approximately 2,000 mph)
• First Flight: July 25, 1964
• Notable Features: Variable-geometry wings, supersonic cruise capability.
• Operational Ceiling: 77,350 feet (23,560 m)
• Range: 4,288 miles (6,900 km)
• Powerplant: Six General Electric YJ93-GE-3 turbojet engines
• Operational Period: 1964-1969 (prototype phase)
• Significance: Designed to outrun Soviet interceptors and missiles, but ultimately canceled due to high costs and changes in strategic bombing doctrine.

7.) Mikoyan MiG-31 Foxhound

The MiG-31 is an improved version of the MiG-25, incorporating advanced avionics and radar systems. It remains in service with the Russian Air Force as an interceptor and long-range escort fighter.

 First flown in 1975, it is still in service. Operates at altitudes up to 67,500 feet (20,600 m).Uses two Soloviev D-30F6 afterburning turbofan engines.Known for its long-range interception capabilities and advanced radar. It has a range of 900 miles (1,450 km). The MiG-31 can track multiple targets simultaneously

 Key features include:  

• Role: Interceptor, long-range escort fighter
• Max Speed: Mach 2.83 (approximately 1,924 mph)
• First Flight: September 16, 1975
• Notable Features: Advanced radar, long-range capabilities, improved avionics.
• Operational Ceiling: 67,500 feet (20,600 m)
• Range: 900 miles (1,450 km)
• Powerplant: Two Soloviev D-30F6 afterburning turbofan engines
• Operational Period: 1981-present
• Significance: Capable of long-range, high-speed interception with advanced radar and missile systems.

8.) McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle

The F-15 Eagle is a twin-engine, all-weather tactical fighter aircraft designed by McDonnell Douglas for the U.S. Air Force. Renowned for its air superiority capabilities, it has been a mainstay of many air forces worldwide. Its first flight was in 1972, and it remains operational.

 Operates at altitudes up to 65,000 feet (19,812 m).Equipped with two Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229 engines.Known for its impressive combat record and maneuverability. The F-15 has a range of 3,450 miles (5,550 km) with external tanks. It has been a key asset in maintaining air superiority.

Key features include:  

• Role: Air superiority fighter
• Max Speed: Mach 2.5 (approximately 1,650 mph)
• First Flight: July 27, 1972
• Notable Features: Excellent maneuverability, powerful engines, heavy armament.
• Operational Ceiling: 65,000 feet (19,812 m)
• Range: 3,450 miles (5,550 km) with external tanks
• Powerplant: Two Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229 engines
• Operational Period: 1976-present
• Significance: Proven combat record with unmatched air-to-air capabilities

9.) Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker

The Su-27 is a large, twin-engine fighter aircraft developed by Sukhoi for the Soviet Air Force. Known for its superior maneuverability and long range, it has been the basis for numerous variants.

 First flown in 1977, it remains in service. Operates at altitudes up to 62,500 feet (19,050 m).Powered by two Saturn AL-31F afterburning turbofan engines.Known for its agility and advanced avionics. The Su-27 has a range of 2,190 miles (3,530 km). It has influenced the design of many other fighters.

 Key features include:  

• Role: Air superiority fighter
• Max Speed: Mach 2.35 (approximately 1,565 mph)
• First Flight: May 20, 1977
• Notable Features: Large size, high maneuverability, long range.
• Operational Ceiling: 62,500 feet (19,050 m)
• Range: 2,190 miles (3,530 km)
• Powerplant: Two Saturn AL-31F afterburning turbofan engines
• Operational Period: 1985-present
• Significance: A cornerstone of Russian air defense, known for its agility and powerful armament.

10.) MiG-23 Flogger

The MiG-23 was a variable-geometry fighter aircraft developed by Mikoyan for the Soviet Air Force. Its distinctive swing wings allowed for efficient flight at both subsonic and supersonic speeds.

 Its first flight was in 1967, and it remains in limited service. Operates at altitudes up to 59,000 feet (18,000 m).Powered by a Tumansky R-29-300 turbojet engine.Known for its swing-wing design, offering versatility. It has a range of 1,150 miles (1,850 km). The MiG-23 has seen extensive service in various conflicts.

Key features : 

• Role: Fighter/attacker
• Max Speed: Mach 2.4 (approximately 1,600 mph)
• First Flight: April 28, 1967
• Notable Features: Variable geometry wings, versatile capabilities.
• Operational Ceiling: 59,000 feet (18,000 m)
• Range: 1,150 miles (1,850 km)
• Powerplant: Tumansky R-29-300 turbojet engine
• Operational Period: 1970-present (limited use)
• Significance: One of the first swing-wing aircraft, offering versatility in various combat roles.

11.) Grumman F-14 Tomcat

The F-14 Tomcat was a supersonic, variable-sweep wing, twin-engine, two-seat fighter aircraft developed for the U.S. Navy. Renowned for its long-range air-to-air combat capabilities, it was a mainstay of the U.S. Navy for decades. First flown in 1970, it was operational until 2006. 

Operates at altitudes up to 50,000 feet (15,240 m).Uses two General Electric F110-GE-400 engines.Known for its variable-sweep wings and advanced missile systems. The F-14 had a range of 1,600 miles (2,575 km). It was prominently featured in the movie “Top Gun”.

 Key features include : 

• Role: Fleet defense interceptor
• Max Speed: Mach 2.34 (approximately 1,550 mph)
• First Flight: December 21, 1970
• Notable Features: Variable-geometry wings, long-range air-to-air missiles, powerful engines.
• Operational Ceiling: 50,000 feet (15,240 m)
• Range: 1,600 miles (2,575 km)
• Powerplant: Two General Electric F110-GE-400 afterburning turbofan engines
• Operational Period: 1974-2006
• Significance: Renowned for its variable-sweep wings and advanced radar and missile systems

12.) Mikoyan MiG-29 Fulcrum

The Mikoyan MiG-29 Fulcrum is a lightweight, agile fighter aircraft designed by the Soviet Union for air superiority missions. It first flew in 1977 and entered service with the Soviet Air Force in 1982. 

The MiG-29 remains in service with some air forces around the world today. Operates at altitudes up to 59,000 feet (18,000 m).Powered by two Klimov RD-33 engines.Known for its agility and dogfighting capabilities. The MiG-29 has a range of 1,150 miles (1,850 km). It has been exported to many countries around the world.

Key features include :

• Role: Air superiority fighter
• Max Speed: Mach 2.3 (approximately 1,534 mph)
• First Flight: August 23, 1977
• Notable Features: Lightweight, agile, high rate of climb.
• Operational Ceiling: 59,000 feet (18,000 m)
• Range: 1,150 miles (1,850 km)
• Powerplant: Two Klimov RD-33 afterburning turbofan engines
• Operational Period: 1982-present
• Significance: Known for its agility and effectiveness in dogfights.

13.) IAI Kfir

The IAI Kfir is a multi-role fighter aircraft developed by Israel Aircraft Industries. It is a derivative of the Dassault Mirage 5 but with significant improvements in avionics and weapons. The Kfir first flew in 1974 and entered service with the Israeli Air Force in 1977.

The Kfir was developed by Israel to meet its need for a modern fighter aircraft that could counter the Soviet MiG-21. The Kfir is a versatile aircraft that can be used for a variety of roles, including air superiority, interception, and ground attack. It has been a mainstay of the Israeli Air Force for many years, and it has also been exported to many other countries.

• Role: Fighter
• Max Speed: Mach 2.2 (approximately 1,470 mph)
• First Flight: September 1974
• Notable Features: Derivative of Mirage 5, improved avionics and weapons
• Operational Ceiling: 58,000 feet (17,678 m)
• Range: 430 miles (700 km)
• Powerplant: General Electric J79 turbojet engine
• Operational Period: 1975-present
• Significance: A modified Mirage 5 with improved avionics and weapons systems.

14.) Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor

The Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor is a fifth-generation, single-seat, twin-engine, all-weather stealth tactical fighter aircraft developed for the United States Air Force (USAF). The F-22 Raptor is the world’s first operational stealth fighter aircraft and remains the only fifth-generation fighter currently in production. The F-22’s primary mission is to achieve and maintain air superiority. Known for its stealth, speed, and advanced avionics. The F-22 has a range of 1,839 miles (2,960 km).

Key features include:

• Role: Air superiority fighter
• Max Speed: Mach 2.25 (approximately 1,500 mph) (classified)
• First Flight: August 7, 1997
• Notable Features: Stealth technology, supercruise capability, advanced avionics.
• Operational Ceiling: 65,000 feet (19,812 m)
• Range: 1,839 miles (2,960 km)
• Powerplant: Two Pratt & Whitney F119-PW-100 turbofan engines
• Operational Period: 2005-present
• Significance: Combines stealth, speed, agility, and advanced avionics.

15.) McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II

The McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II is a long-serving, twin-engine, two-seat, all-weather, multi-role fighter-bomber aircraft. The F-4 Phantom II was one of the most widespread jet fighters of the 20th century. 

It was flown by the United States Air Force (USAF) and United States Navy (USN) from 1960 to the late 1990s and was also exported to 11 other countries. Powered by two General Electric J79 engines.Known for its versatility in multiple combat roles. The F-4 has a range of 1,750 miles (2,816 km).

Key features include: 

• Role: Multirole fighter
• Max Speed: Mach 2.2 (approximately 1,470 mph)
• First Flight: May 27, 1960
• Notable Features: Long-serving, versatile, powerful radar
• Operational Ceiling: 60,000 feet (18,288 m)
• Range: 1,750 miles (2,816 km)
• Powerplant: Two General Electric J79-GE-17A engines
• Operational Period: 1960-1996 (U.S. service)
• Significance: Served in multiple roles and saw extensive action during the Vietnam War.

Top 10 Fastest Fighter Planes in the World 

The fastest fighter planes in the world are a combination of experimental aircraft and those currently in service. Below are the Top 10 Fastest Fighter planes in the World in 2024 are as follows:

Experimental Aircraft

• NASA X-43: This aircraft holds the record for the fastest speed ever achieved by a winged aircraft, reaching Mach 9.6 (approximately 7,366 mph) during a test flight in 2005.
• NASA X-15: This experimental aircraft reached a top speed of 4,520 mph during a test flight in 1967.

Fighter Jets Currently in Service

• MiG-25 Foxbat: With a top speed of Mach 3.2 (approximately 2,190 mph), the MiG-25 is the fastest fighter jet still in service.
• MiG-31 Foxhound: This Russian interceptor aircraft can reach speeds of Mach 3.5 (approximately 2,440 mph).
• McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle: The F-15 is the fastest fighter jet in service in terms of deployed aircraft, with its latest variant, the F-15EX, officially faster than any variant of the next fastest jet, the Su-27. Some reports claim the F-15EX reached Mach 2.4 during testing, although not officially confirmed.

Fastest fighter plane in the world 2024 – Mikoyan MiG-31 Foxhound

The Mikoyan MiG-31 Foxhound is a prominent Russian supersonic interceptor aircraft, known for its speed and advanced capabilities. The MiG-31 has been actively used in various military operations, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where it has successfully engaged enemy aircraft. It remains in service with the Russian Air Force and Kazakhstan, with plans for modernization and upgrades expected to extend its operational life until at least 2030.

Here are key details about the MiG-31 are as follows : 

General Overview

• NATO Designation: Foxhound
• First Flight: September 16, 1975
• Introduction: Entered service in 1982
• Role: Primarily designed as an interceptor to engage high-speed aerial threats.

Performance

• Maximum Speed: Mach 2.83 (1,900 mph) at high altitude
• Rate of Climb: 208 m/s (684 ft/s)
• Service Ceiling: 20,600 m (67,600 ft)
• Combat Range: 720 km (447 miles)
• Ferry Range: 3,300 km (2,050 miles)

Specifications

• Crew: 2 (pilot and radar operator)
• Length: 22.69 m (74 ft 5 in)
• Wingspan: 13.46 m (44 ft 2 in)
• Height: 6.15 m (20 ft 2 in)
• Maximum Takeoff Weight: 46,750 kg (103,000 lb)
• Engines: 2 x Soloviev D30-F6 turbofan engines
• Thrust: 15,500 kg (152 kN) each with afterburner

Top 15 Fastest Planes in the World – FAQs

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The post Fastest Planes in the World 2024 List appeared first on Aviation A2Z.