5-generation airplanes 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 in the event of any serious world situations that 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. A Russian- made T-50 aircraft may well become a worthy competitor to other air vehicles. The distinctive features of these ultra-modern models include:
- Easy destruction of strategic enemy targets.
- The ability to paralyze the entire defense industry of a country.
Consider 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
5th generation aircraft began to be developed not so long ago, and at first the design was carried out by fighter design bureaus in the Soviet Union. It was in the 80s that full-scale work began on the production of a multi-functional fighter. First of all, it was planned to create a long-range interceptor, which can become a worthy replacement for the Su-27 and MiG-31. The following requirements were imposed on the model as the main ones:
- multifunctionality, that is, the ability to act on any type of goals - air, ground and surface;
- low visibility in any spectra - from visual to thermal and electromagnetic;
- unique maneuverability, which would allow to implement unconventional techniques and tactical elements of air combat;
- extended range of possible flight modes;
- supersonic flight speed.
First plane lump
Before the 5th generation Russian aircraft appeared, they underwent all sorts of improvements. So, first the Su-47 was put forward as the main interceptor fighter, then the promising Su-27KM fighter. However, none of these models could in any way relate to the number of the fifth generation. That is why in 1998 a new technical task was compiled to create a unique fighter. During this time, many models were thought out, only by 2001 the perspective aviation complex of front-line aviation PAK FA was thought out.
Success
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 allowed to identify problems with the steering, brake system. As noted in the reports of the developers, this model is notable for its simplicity and ease of maintenance, the ability to develop speed without afterburner, maneuverability with large overloads and stealth.
In those days, only the United States and Russia could boast that in their arsenal of weapons were 5-generation aircraft. It was rumored that the Chinese were planning to create a new product. Looking ahead, let's say that they did create it all the same - and in terms of its characteristics, it was in no way inferior to the American and Russian counterparts.
Advantages of T-50 PAK FA
As noted by many experts, the fifth generation of aircraft in Russia has unique features. First of all, models are attractive in that they serve as both a fighter and an attack aircraft. In addition, the new avionics system integrates the electronic pilot function. Airplanes of the 5th generation of Russia are equipped with a promising radar station, which is supplemented by a phased antenna array. Its feature is in reducing the burden on the pilot, who can concentrate and perform tactical tasks.
PAK FA equipment
Supernova fighters created in Russia are equipped with unique avionics. Its peculiarity is that it is possible to exchange data online, and communication is carried out both with ground-based control systems and within the aviation group. Thanks to the use of modern materials and unique technologies, 5th generation Russian military aircraft are distinguished by an aerodynamic layout and a low level of various degrees of detection. Thanks to this, the combat effectiveness of aircraft for various types of targets is increased. The design of the model is designed to minimize the visibility of the aircraft. The PAK FA engine consists of new parts by 80%, which has increased the reliability and durability of the resource.

T-50 is a 5th generation aircraft that belongs to the heavy class. A novelty of the Russian engine building is a plasma ignition system, which provides an oxygen-free engine start. Also for the first time on domestic aircraft, digital control was used: this system is characterized by mobility and flexibility. As for weapons, the PAK FA is planned to be equipped with weapons outside and inside the suspension.
Weapon Features
T-50 is a 5th generation aircraft that can fight at different distances. For this, it is equipped with missiles of various types. The use of modern achievements will make it possible to detect airborne and ground targets with greater efficiency. Also, the model will be equipped with a single information system for combat use and control to exchange data with other aircraft. Of the new products, the aircraft will receive a navigation system based on GPS / GLONASS navigation, as well as radio-electronic equipment, electronic warfare and suppression of the infrared seeker and remote fuses of enemy missiles, emf, an in-flight refueling system, and a two-dome braking parachute.
Foreign experts came to the conclusion that the latest 5th generation aircraft in Russia is a genuine 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. 5th generation American aircraft are considered the most powerful and powerful in the world, because they are distinguished by a long flight at supersonic speed and can show unique tactical tricks.
Compared to the Russian aircraft, the F / A-22 has a thrust vector control system, which translates into 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 can well argue with their American counterparts in terms of power and reliability.
It is noted that the defensive complex of the Russian aircraft solves many problems with identifying objects with high accuracy, although the equipment of the Raptor resembles that of attack aircraft. The American aircraft, in turn, boasts the equipment of new generation of adjustable bombs, which are equipped with an inertial-satellite guidance system.
Equipment "Raptor"
To make the aircraft less noticeable, the developers equipped it with a passive operation system. American military aircraft of the 5th generation Raptor are capable of detecting a large air target at a distance of up to 300 km, ground - up to 70 km. The cockpit has a wide-angle ILS with a large field of view, which distinguishes the Russian aircraft. Of the weapons, one can note the built-in MB 1A2 gun (ammunition - 480 shells), four air-to-air missiles, 6 AIM-120C missiles and two missiles in the compartments. A number of missiles are located on the wing of the aircraft.
The American aircraft was the first fighter to be fully equipped with an integrated system of on-board equipment. It includes a central integrated data processing system, a communication system, navigation, ICNIA identification and an electronic control combat complex.
J-20 (Black Eagle)
If Russian planes 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 designed according to the “duck” scheme. However, in terms of its technical characteristics, it cannot be compared with either the Russian or the American model. Thus, experts note that the Chinese aircraft has problems with aerodynamics, its flight range is small compared to our model, and the design not 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, dimensional and clearly visible aircraft has neither maneuverability nor reliability in operation. Accordingly, the world's most reliable 5th generation aircraft and the American Raptor remain the most reliable in the world.
Comparative analysis
Let's carry out a comparative characteristic of two models - Russian and American production:
The performance characteristics | Russian T-50 | American Raptor |
Crew | 1 person | 1 person |
Wing area | 78.8 sq.m. | 78 sq.m |
Flight duration | 3.3 hours | 3 hours |
Top speed | 2.6 Mach | 2,4 Mach |
Range of flight | 2200 km | 5500 km |
Maximum take-off weight | 37,000 kg | 38,000 kg |
Battle ceiling | 19.2 km | 18 km |
Conclusions: who is better?
The latest fighters of the highest power are available only in the USA and Russia. Who will prevail if 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 practical range and combat radius. In any case, the performance of both models will be constantly improved, so making a clear conclusion about who is stronger is still difficult.