F-22 Raptor vs. Su-57 Felon: A 2025 Fighter Jet Comparison

The Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor and the Sukhoi Su-57 Felon are two of the most advanced fifth-generation fighter jets currently in service, each representing the pinnacle of air superiority for their respective nations. As of 2025, the F-22 has been operational for more than two decades, while the Su-57 has recently entered service, significantly impacting air combat dynamics.

Both aircraft showcase cutting-edge stealth technology and multirole capabilities. The F-22 is exclusively utilized by the United States Air Force (USAF), whereas the Su-57 serves the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS). Although the F-22 is renowned for its stealth, the Su-57 brings considerable advantages such as longer range and diverse operational roles, particularly given its lower unit cost.

F-22 Raptor: Pioneering Stealth and Performance

The F-22 Raptor is celebrated for its unparalleled stealth features, enabling the United States to maintain air dominance globally. Since its introduction on December 15, 2005, the F-22 has set the standard for fifth-generation fighters. It boasts the smallest radar cross-section among combat aircraft, making it extremely difficult for adversaries to detect.

Equipped with advanced technologies, including radar-absorbent materials and internal weapon bays, the F-22’s design minimizes its radar signature. The jet features the AN/APG-77 radar system, which works in tandem with sophisticated sensors, allowing it to execute the “first look, first shot, first kill” doctrine effectively. This capability enhances its operational effectiveness while reducing exposure to threats.

Specifications for the F-22 include:
– **Crew**: 1 pilot
– **Engines**: 2 × Pratt & Whitney F119-PW-100
– **Maximum Speed**: Mach 2-class (2,120 km/h / 1,317 mph)
– **Supercruise Speed**: Up to Mach 1.82 (1,960 km/h / 1,217 mph)
– **Unit Cost**: Estimated at over $140 million, with lifecycle costs potentially reaching $350 million.

The F-22’s high operational costs have limited its production, resulting in only 195 units built.

Su-57 Felon: Versatile and Cost-Effective

The Su-57 Felon was developed to succeed the Su-27 Flanker family and completed its maiden flight in 2010. Officially entering service in December 2020, the Su-57 is regarded as Russia’s most advanced fighter, designed for a mix of stealth, agility, and multirole capabilities.

Central to the Su-57’s design is the N036 Byelka AESA radar, which significantly enhances its situational awareness and targeting capabilities. The aircraft’s internal weapon bays allow for various armament configurations, including air-to-air missiles and precision-guided munitions, thereby fulfilling diverse mission requirements effectively.

Key specifications for the Su-57 include:
– **Crew**: 1 pilot
– **Engines**: 2 × Saturn AL‐41F1 or Izdeliye-30
– **Maximum Speed**: Mach 2-class (2,120 km/h / 1,317 mph)
– **Supercruise Speed**: Up to Mach 1.6 (1,700 km/h / 1,060 mph)
– **Unit Cost**: Approximately $50 million.

Despite being officially in production, only around 40 Su-57 jets are believed to be operational as of November 2025, hindered by technical challenges and economic sanctions.

Comparing Capabilities and Costs

While both fighter jets excel in stealth, their design philosophies reflect differing military priorities. The F-22 emphasizes stealth and first-strike capability, whereas the Su-57 focuses on versatility across multiple mission types. The F-22’s radar cross-section measures a mere 0.0001 m², significantly lower than the Su-57’s 0.5 m², indicating a stronger emphasis on invisibility in combat.

Despite its superior stealth, the F-22 incurs substantial operational costs. The average cost per flight hour can range from $60,000 to $80,000, while the Su-57 is reported to have a flight cost of around $24,000. This disparity in operating expenses highlights the economic challenges associated with the F-22 program.

| Aircraft | Unit Acquisition Cost | Cost Per Flight Hour |
|———–|—————————–|—————————|
| F-22 Raptor | $143 million (flyaway) / $350 million (with R&D) | $60,000–$80,000 |
| Su-57 Felon | $50 million (flyaway) | $24,000 |

Both aircraft programs have faced production obstacles. The F-22’s production cap was significantly reduced from an initial goal of 750 units to just 187 due to rising costs and classified technology restrictions preventing foreign sales.

In contrast, the Su-57 program, while still in early production, has been slowed by material shortages and technical issues. Russia’s ability to scale its production remains uncertain, but the Su-57 has been earmarked for limited foreign sales, with potential interest from countries like Algeria.

As air combat technology continues to evolve, both the F-22 Raptor and Su-57 Felon will play crucial roles in shaping the future of military aviation, each reflecting the strategic priorities of their respective nations.