Defence

Russia Plans to develop 5th and 6th Generation VTOL Fighters

Recent reports from the Russian website TopWar.ru reveal that a division of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), in collaboration with Rostec, is exploring the development of a new generation of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) fighters.

Although details about the aircraft’s specific applications remain limited, the prospect of VTOL technology is particularly promising for its potential use on aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships—environments where such capabilities are highly valued.

Yakovlev, a key player in Russian aircraft design, is contemplating a revival of the Yak-141, the world’s first supersonic VTOL aircraft, which first took to the skies in 1987. The Yak-141, an evolution of the Yak-36 design from the 1950s, could form the basis for Russia’s next-generation VTOL fighter.

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Given the challenges currently faced by Russia’s air force, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, there is a strong push to develop a new, advanced fighter jet by 2050. However, experts express skepticism about this timeline, citing ongoing difficulties with Russia’s current generation of stealth fighters.

Developing a new fighter jet is an intricate and costly endeavor. Even with substantial investments in research and development, as well as potential construction of new aircraft carriers, the production of these advanced jets is expected to be limited. The complexities involved in designing and manufacturing a VTOL aircraft include miniaturizing and advancing avionics, creating a specialized airframe and wing, and most critically, developing a powerful and reliable engine.

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On July 27, 2024, Andrey Boginsky, head of Yakovlev, confirmed the company’s readiness to resume VTOL development. He emphasized Yakovlev’s extensive experience in the field, noting that the design bureau has been working on VTOL aircraft since the late 1950s, with notable achievements such as the Yak-38 and Yak-141.

Boginsky highlighted that leveraging both new aviation technologies and the preserved technical knowledge from the 1990s could facilitate a swift return to VTOL aircraft development, russia commercial aircraft provided the Ministry of Defense assigns the project.

The potential benefits of VTOL aircraft extend beyond naval applications; they could also play a critical role for the Aerospace Forces, particularly in scenarios where base airfields are vulnerable to missile and bomb attacks. These aircraft could be deployed on various types of ships and land-based sites without the need for traditional runways, making them highly versatile.

Defence

Which Country Has the Largest Fleet of Fighter Aircraft?

Fighter planes are crucial for a country’s defense and military strength. They are designed to engage in aerial combat and protect national airspace. Different nations invest heavily in their air forces, leading to varying numbers of fighter jets.

Among them, the United States stands out as the country with the most fighter planes, boasting a diverse fleet equipped with advanced technology. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the fighter jet inventories of different countries, highlighting the significance of air power in modern warfare.

1. United States

The United States Air Force (USAF) ranks first in the world for the largest air force, boasting a total of 13,209 aircraft. Among these, approximately 1,854 are fighter jets, including iconic models like the F-22 Raptor and the F-35 Lightning II. These advanced fighters are essential for air dominance and ground support. The USAF’s fleet also includes various attack aircraft, logistical support planes, and helicopters, making it a cornerstone of American military power.

2. Russia

Holding the second position globally, Russia boasts a formidable fleet of 4,255 aircraft, which includes 809 fighter jets and 730 attack planes. The Russian Air Force operates a diverse range of fighters, such as the Su-57 and MiG-29. These jets are designed for air superiority and ground attack missions, reflecting Russia’s commitment to maintaining a formidable aerial presence.

3. China

In the race for air superiority, China comes in second with 3,304 aircraft. Among these, 1,207 are fighters and bombers.The People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) operates advanced models like the Chengdu J-20 and Shenyang J-11, which are crucial for securing Chinese airspace and engaging in regional conflicts.

4. India

India ranks fourth with an impressive total of 2,296 aircraft, including around 606 fighter jets.The Indian Air Force (IAF) operates a mix of indigenous and imported fighters, such as the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and the Mirage 2000. The IAF plays a vital role in protecting India’s borders and maintaining regional stability.

5. North Korea

South Korea comes in 5th place with a total of 905 aircraft, including approximately 400 fighter jets. The Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) uses advanced models like the F-15K and KF-21 Boramae, enhancing its ability to counter threats from North Korea and maintain air superiority.

6.North Korea ranks sixth, with a total of 947 aircraft, of which around 400 are fighter jets. The Korean People’s Army Air Force primarily operates older models, such as the MiG-15 and MiG-21, which are used for defense and limited offensive capabilities.

7. Pakistan

Pakistan ranks seventh with 820 aircraft, including around 300 fighter jets. The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) operates a mix of fighters, such as the JF-17 Thunder and F-16, which are crucial for national defense and regional security.

8.Egypt: Egypt’s Air Force ranks eighth globally with a fleet of 1,080 aircraft. The Egyptian Air Force (EAF) operates a diverse array of multirole fighters, including the F-16 and Rafale, supported by a robust helicopter fleet. EAF’s ongoing modernization efforts highlight its focus on maintaining regional stability and strengthening its strategic capabilities.
9. Japan

Japan holds the ninth position with the fleet of 1,459 aircraft, underscoring Japan’s focus on air defense and regional security. The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) operates advanced fighters like the F-35 and Mitsubishi F-2, focusing on air defense and humanitarian missions.

10. Saudi Arabia

Finally, Saudi Arabia ranks tenth with 690 aircraft, including around 300 fighter jets. The Royal Saudi Air Force operates a fleet that includes advanced models like the Eurofighter Typhoon and F-15, playing a significant role in regional security and operations.