We admire how fast a regular passenger plane can reach and how quickly it can get us from one part of the world to another. Few people know, but the speed of passenger airliners usually does not exceed 900 km / h. Almost any jet fighter will be able to overtake such a vessel, developing a speed of about three times as much.
But there are aircraft whose speed exceeds this indicator - hypersonic aircraft. Hypersonic devices are devices that are capable of reaching speeds several times higher than the speed of sound in flight.
A specific indicator that would allow aircraft to be classified as hypersonic has not yet been determined by researchers.
Another criterion that causes constant controversy is the way the device is controlled. Some researchers are of the opinion that only those ships can be called aircraft, managed by a person. According to another point of view, drones can also be classified as aircraft. Such a division can be considered quite justified, since unmanned vehicles have more advanced technical characteristics. Also, the subject of dispute is the ability of the aircraft to take off independently or using other powerful carriers.
Be that as it may, most researchers are of the unanimous opinion, according to which the determining factor in classifying a particular model as a hypersonic model is the maximum speed of the aircraft that it can develop while in the air. This approach allows several times to expand the list of hypersonic aircraft models, which are being developed by engineers from all over the world. Of course, many are interested in what is the fastest aircraft in the world that is already cutting through the sky, and what characteristics it has.
Celestial Speed Rating
To answer this interesting question, let's make a rating: "The fastest planes in the world Top 10". In it, we will celebrate those models of air transport that rightfully deserve to go down in history due to their characteristics.
10th place: Tupolev Tu-144
Photograph of Tupolev Tu-144 aircraft
The speed performance of the Tu-144 would not allow it to enter the top 10 fastest aircraft. However, it would be wrong not to mention him in this rating. Tupolev took an honorable tenth place, as it is the first supersonic passenger airliner in the world. Its first flight was dated back to 1968. This event was literally a gift for the field of aviation development, as the flight took place on December 31, just on the eve of the New Year celebration. But the most significant event in the history of the Tu-144 took place on June 5, 1969, when he managed to overcome the sound barrier, being at an altitude of 11 km. Tupolev Tu-144 is the fastest passenger aircraft in the world, accelerating up to 2,500 km/h.
9th place: General Dynamics F-111
In ninth place is a tactical bomber, accelerating to a speed of 3060 km / h. Unfortunately, the model was decommissioned in the late 90s. At one time, the device became the first aircraft that could change the sweep of the wing, which gave it a significant advantage in the air.
8th Place: McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle
8th position is given to the American all-weather fighter, which is one of the most successful aircraft. Now this model is still an important part of the US Air Force and will not leave service until at least 2025. In addition, the American command plans to produce these devices for about three more years. The vessel can gain speed equal to 3065 km/h.
7th place: MiG-31
Domestic sky guard MiG-31
The seventh line was occupied by a domestic aircraft capable of accelerating to 3463.92 km / h. The device boasts the presence of two powerful engines, allowing it to develop supersonic speeds at both high and low altitudes. Unfortunately, the production of this combat vessel was stopped in the first half of the 90s.
6th place: XB-70 Valkyrie
Sixth place went to the strategic bomber, whose main task during the Cold War would be the delivery of nuclear weapons. It was assumed that the speed equal to 3672 km / h would be needed by the device in order to elude Soviet interceptors, but, more importantly, still not fall under the consequences of a nuclear explosion. Only two aircraft of this model were created.
5th place: Bell X-2 Starbuster
The next place goes to an experimental aircraft, the main purpose of which is to study the conditions of flight at high speeds. According to preliminary data, the aircraft could reach a speed of 3911.9 km / h. The first flight of the device took place in 1954, but two years later this program had to be stopped. The fact is that after the plane has reached its maximum speed, the pilot will no longer be able to control it.
4th place: MiG-25
The MiG-25 aircraft was built especially for organizing interceptions of American reconnaissance aircraft, which took an honorable fourth place. The device has unique features:
- develops a speed of 3916.8 km / h;
- strikes targets at an altitude of up to 25 km.
The aircraft proved to be excellent in some conflicts and is still in the ranks of the armed forces of some countries. In total, 1100 aircraft of this type were created.
3rd place: Lockheed YF-12
In 3rd place was the device, which was developed as a prototype of an aircraft capable of reaching a speed equal to 3.35 the speed of sound. This aircraft model received several honorary titles, which later moved, roughly speaking, to Lockheed's "brother" - to the SR-71 Blackbird model. Both devices were designed by designer Clarence "Kelly" Johnson. The maximum speed that the YF-12 could develop was 4100.4 km / h.
2nd place: SR-71 Blackbird
"Blackbird", and this is how the name of this model can be translated into Russian, was used by the US Air Force and NASA. Moreover, the first plane was needed to carry out strategic reconnaissance missions, and the second - for research purposes. A total of 32 vessels were built, since the creation of the apparatus was associated with an important problem: the high temperature of the apparatus, to which it warmed up in flight. In addition, this model requires special fuel to operate, and refueling can only be done in flight. Thrush speed - 4102.8 km / h.
1st Place: North American X-15
The fastest manned hypersonic aircraft
The speed of the fastest manned aircraft is 8200.8 km/h. The model was developed specifically for research related to hypersonic flight, in which the vessel is controlled by a pilot. The aircraft is equipped with a rocket engine and launches from a strategic bomber. It is noteworthy that the ship can rise to a height of 107 km. Actively used until 1970.
Unmanned Rivals
The jet-powered Boeing X-43 is now the fastest unmanned aircraft in the world. The first flight of the device was unsuccessful, as the plane crashed after only 11 seconds in the air. But already the third flight of the X-43A was crowned with the setting of a new world speed record - 11,230 km / h.
Orbital Sciences Corporation X-34 could get the title of the fastest aircraft, but this is prevented by one "but". In theory, the ship can accelerate to 12,144 km/h. However, during the experimental flights, he could not catch up with his main rival and gained speed less than 11,230 km / h.
Dangerous competition
Chinese WU-14 hypersonic developments deserve special consideration. In essence, the WU-14 is a guided glider mounted on an intercontinental ballistic missile. The rocket complex launches the device into space, from where it dives down sharply, while gaining incredible speed. During testing, this device was able to develop a speed that exceeded the mark of 12,000 km / h. But many researchers are of the opinion that this development does not belong to the class of aircraft, but to be classified as a warhead.
In contact with
It's no secret that airplanes are the fastest mode of transport. Some of them are capable of speeds up to 1500 kilometers per hour. At the same time, speed is a decisive factor in the military industry. For this reason, we will consider the fastest fighters in the world. We are talking about unique developments, characterized by instant response and amazing maneuvering. For the latest fighters, the milestone of 2000 kilometers per hour is far from the limit. At the same time, many countries allocate huge amounts of money for armaments, which affects the appearance of unique analogues mentioned below.
The rating of the fastest fighters opens Dassault Rafale. This aircraft performs a huge range of tasks. The mission of the aircraft includes overcoming not only close, but also long distances. Rafael is equipped with a variety of powerful weapons designed to deliver precision strikes against ground targets. At high altitude, its speed is Mach 1.8 or 1900 kilometers per hour. The fighter was developed by the French Navy back in 2004. But to this day, fighters, of which there are only 145 units in the world, are considered one of the fastest.
The full name of the Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter. The unique aircraft was developed by a Swedish company called SAAB. The fighter was first put into operation in 1997. The Swedish Air Force has repeatedly modified the model. Currently, the maximum weapon opening speed is 2200 km/h or Mach 2.0. During the production period, about 270 aircraft were created. At the same time, 204 units are still functioning to ensure the security of Sweden.
The military aircraft is one of the fastest in India and all over the world. Speed 2.3 Mach. This tool can land even on unprepared airfields and ships. Differs in good maneuverability. In total, close to 1500 such aircraft were produced, which is due to their endurance and wear resistance. A fighter can fight a long, active battle without losing speed and sharpness. It is worth noting that Indian manufacturers have achieved high achievements in the invention of air vehicles. Every year they produce a huge number of aircraft, many of which are used in the military industry around the world.
As already mentioned, India is one of the leading countries in the field of the invention of military equipment. Probably, attempts to modify the MiG-29 led to the creation of another of the fastest fighters on the planet - the MiG-23. Vehicle speed at high altitude is 2,445 km/h. We are talking about a multi-role fighter, which in the 80s took part in all known armed confrontations. Currently, the aircraft is in service with Syria, Libya and even India.
The representative of the German armed forces Typhoon was put into production in 2003. The maximum speed of the fighter reaches Mach 2.0 or 2450 km/h. It is worth noting that this is an invisible aircraft, that is, Stealth. Most of the body of this ground vehicle is made of a special coating that blocks electromagnetic waves. In this case, the combat radius of the fighter is 1390 km. Amazing results. The multipurpose aircraft is also used in the UK and Italy. In total, there are about five hundred such fighters in the world.
The fifth line goes to the Soviet military vessel Su-27. The fourth-generation Soviet multipurpose all-weather fighter, designed to gain air superiority, was designed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau in 1977. In 1985, the aircraft entered service with the USSR Air Force. Now it is in operation in the Russian Air Force, being the main fighter. Modifications of the Su-27 are in service with China, Ukraine, India and other states. The maximum speed that the aircraft is capable of is 2876.4 km / h (Mach 2.35). In total, about 809 such air units were produced.
The fastest fighter on the planet is the Grumman F-14, whose speed reaches 2485 kilometers per hour. The unique aircraft was developed by Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation. The first analogue appeared in 2006. At the moment, active deliveries of aircraft to Iran are underway, where the fighter is in service. We are talking about a reliable interceptor that can accompany 4 targets at once. At the same time, it can simultaneously capture up to 6 targets. It is known about the existence of 712 fighters.
The speed of this aircraft is 2,650 km/h. The development was presented by specialists from the USA. In its class, the aircraft is an irreproachable leader, as it is distinguished by excellent maneuverability. The tactical fighter appeared in 1976. At the same time, its production is scheduled until 2025 for the armament of America. Every year, employees of leading companies add innovations to improve the response and maneuvers of the aircraft. In total, 1500 such products are known to exist. All are in the USA.
The fastest fighter in the world considered MiG-31 with a speed of 3000 kilometers per hour. By the name, you have already guessed that it belongs to the heritage of Russia. Attracts with ample opportunities. The fighter is capable of intercepting targets and destroying enemy objects at high, low and medium altitudes. Also detects false heat targets. First appeared in 1981. Needless to say, it has gone through a lot of upgrades since then. It develops maximum speed at an altitude of 25 kilometers.
In terms of speed of movement, airliners differ from each other, because even a simple passenger board accelerates to 900 km / h. This figure is not so great. A jet fighter flies at three times the speed of an ordinary passenger airliner, and therefore can easily overtake such a plane. But even such models cannot be called the fastest aircraft with full confidence. Let's look into this issue and determine which boards today deserve to be called ultra-high-speed.
Today, thanks to science and technology, there are aircraft that can reach speeds that exceed the propagation of a sound wave. Such models are called hypersonic. Researchers and designers from around the world have not yet found common criteria by which a high-speed aircraft could be attributed to this category.
Some scientists believe that it is permissible to classify a ship that is directly controlled by a person as a hypersonic aircraft. The second half of the experts are of the opinion that unmanned vehicles are better modernized, and therefore the technical justification for the benefits of such modifications is appropriate. Another controversial opinion is also known - is it possible to consider taking off with the help of a catapult or an airplane - an apparatus that rises into the sky on its own. Differences of such nuances cause heated discussions.
The unanimous opinion, where scientists agree, is the maximum speed of the aircraft, which it develops in the air. It is by this criterion that a barrier is established, according to which experts classify the design as supersonic models. Novice aviation enthusiasts are interested in what is the speed of the fastest aircraft in the world and who are rightfully called the best.
Ultra-high-speed unmanned aerial vehicles occupy a leading position in the world ranking. Manned aircraft used by the military traditionally lag behind the first category of aircraft, but are able to surprise the layman. In addition, there are passenger liners, the speed of which is amazing. Consider the characteristics and indicators of these categories in detail.
Leaders among drones
The first place in the specified parameters is deservedly occupied by a drone X-43A . This model is capable of surpassing the propagation of sound waves by 9.6 times. The speed of the structure is not limited to 11,231 km/h. Such indicators are rightfully recognized as the best today.
The model has been developed over a decade by professionals from MicroCraft Inc, NASA and Orbital Sciences Corporation. In the course of the work, studies were carried out on the capabilities of engines operating on jet fuel, and the possible value of the speed index of the model was estimated. Up to $ 250,000,000 was spent on the project, but the result of the development met expectations.
Despite such power, the X-43A is a miniature model. The length of this structure is about three and a half meters, and the distance along the wingspan barely reaches the mark of one and a half meters. As for the engine, here scientists applied the latest experimental development.
The secret of this innovation lies in the elimination of friction between the elements in the core of the motor. The fuel here is also used special, mixing hydrogen with oxygen. There are no tanks for storing O2 on board the X-43A, the device draws it directly from the air, which greatly facilitates the degree of fuel supply, and also significantly affects the mass of the model as a whole. Such a device, which is deservedly called the world's fastest aircraft, does not pollute the environment in any way, because simple steam is released from the engine due to the reaction of fuel elements into the atmosphere.
Another instance is also referred to the category of ultra-high-speed models - this X-34 from Orbital Sciences Corporation. This steel bird can reach speeds of 12,144 km/h. Undoubtedly, its acceleration is higher than the previous device, but it takes the second place for a reason. In testing both drones, the Kh-34 showed a significantly lower result, although the maximum acceleration of the side is much higher than that of the Kh-43A.
The device saw the sky in 2001. Until that time, seven long, painstaking years had been spent on its creation, and a considerable amount, measured in hundreds of millions of dollars. The final success of the development was in two thousand and four. During this time, the model was also equipped with a Pegasus rocket made from solid fuels. The decision of the designers made it possible to give even greater acceleration and maneuverability.
The dimensions of such a device are impressive. The distance at the extreme points of the wings of the model is 8.85 m with a height of three and a half meters and a length of the apparatus of 17.8 m. Such indicators also affect the weight of the structure. The mass of the giant is 1,270 kilograms. But this modification flies fast and is able to gain altitude of 75 kilometers from the runway.
Rating of manned aircraft
There are many other examples that can amaze with the speed of movement. We will find out which manned vehicles are recognized by this criterion in the world. The top 10 most powerful models, whose speed is significantly different from small airliners or other air structures, are presented below. Such designs made it to the top ten liners due to their technical characteristics, earning universal approval.
world leader
The model is considered to be the first in terms of velocity data North American X-15 . The speed of the device reaches a mark of 8200.8 km / h. The design is equipped with a rocket engine controlled by a pilot and starts the flight from the start on board the bomber. The X-15 was created specifically for research purposes with hypersonic flights and actively participated in them until 1970.
The fastest manned aircraft North American X-15 reaches 8,200.8 km/h
Second position
In second place in terms of evaluated characteristics, including speed, engineers attributed SR-71 Blackbird or "blackbird". This model was developed for the study of strategic objects, reconnaissance operations and other operational activities. The speed of the blackbird is 4,102.8 km/h. Such an air vehicle was in great demand, so there were approximately 32 SR-71 Blackbirds. The only disadvantage of the design is excessive overheating and the inability to stay in the air for a long time.
Third step
The third place in the ranking is occupied by the device Lokcheed YF-12 . For the creation of such a model, one should thank the famous aircraft designer Clarence "Kelly" Johnson. Although the assembly of this vessel was carried out at first as the creation of a prototype of the liner, all the same, this device was awarded several honorary titles and awards. The YF-12 is similar in design to the Blackbird, to some extent you can even call them brothers - after all, the idea of \u200b\u200bcreation, drawings and diagrams belong to the same person. Of course, the flight speed of the two devices is slightly different, because the YF-12 accelerates in the air to 4,100.4 km / h.
Fourth place
The position with the fourth result is occupied by MiG-25 . This Russian aircraft was designed specifically for military operations and the interception of reconnaissance aircraft. Currently, he is still in the service of some armed forces. Due to his unique abilities, he was very popular. In total, there are about 1100 such aircraft in the world. MiG-25 cuts through the air at a speed of 3,916.8 km / h and any target at an altitude of no higher than 25 kilometers.
Fifth position
In fifth place we put the experimental board Bell X-2 Starbuster . His task was considered to be the study of flight options for the maximum possible speeds. Scientists listened to the information of some aviation services, and the use of the device had to be stopped. Indeed, upon reaching a maximum speed of 3,911.9 km / h, it is impossible for a person to control such an aircraft. Although the model is rightfully considered a manned structure.
Sixth point
This place is occupied by military modification XB-70 Valkyrie . The bomber's acceleration reaches 3,672 km/h. The model is designed to deliver nuclear weapons to a designated facility. The speed of this air vehicle was calculated by engineers with the condition that the bomber could easily maneuver in the sky and thereby elude the enemy.
The North American XB-70A Valkyrie bomber has a speed of 3,672 km/h
Seventh place
MiG-31 - Another domestic aircraft, whose design is unique. Engineers equipped this model with two of the most powerful engines of their kind, which allow the aircraft to safely fly at supersonic speeds and develop acceleration at any altitude. Unfortunately, for unknown reasons, the production of the MiG-31 was stopped by the mid-90s.
The most powerful MiG-31 is capable of accelerating speed even at the maximum flight altitude
Eighth position
Eighth place is occupied by a military aircraft McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle , in service with the US Air Force. The creation of this fighter was a great success and pride for America. To date, this is the only aircraft whose production has not been stopped, but rather is planned in the future. F-15 flies at a speed of 3,065 km/h and performs its tasks in all weather conditions.
The speed of the McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle military aircraft reaches 3,065 km/h
Ninth line
The penultimate place in the list is given to the tactical bomber F-111 from General Dynamics. Like some other models, it was retired from production in the 90s, although it was the first aircraft that could change the swept wing. No other aircraft had such a factor before the F-111, this quality allowed it to have a significant advantage in the air over other aircraft.
The tactical bomber F-111 had supersonic speed and changed the sweep of the wing
Last place ranking
If someone asks you: “What is the fastest passenger aircraft in Russia?”, you can name the aircraft developed in Russia without a shadow of a doubt. This Tu-144 , which became the first passenger airliner on the planet capable of gaining hypersonic acceleration. For the first time, the air giant took off at the end of December 1968. A year later, the liner showed the ability to gain speed of two and a half thousand kilometers per hour at an altitude of 11 km. This event went down in history, because even today there are no analogues of passenger boards in the world that are able to repeat such a maneuver.
Tu-144 became the first Russian-made passenger airliner to achieve hypersonic speed
As you can see, when it comes to air traffic, the speed of movement here is significantly increased compared to land transport. And even specialists in this field will find it difficult to name the maximum possible value - constant technical development contributes to the development of new, so far secret models, which in the near future will take their rightful place in such a rating.
The speed of the fastest aircraft exceeds the propagation of sound, today unmanned vehicles have become hypersonic leaders 
Drone X-43A - the fastest aircraft in the world 
The X34 aircraft is capable of accelerating up to 12,144 km/h 
The fastest manned aircraft North American X-15 reaches 8,200.2 km/h 
SR-71 Blackbird takes the second position in the top 10 fastest aircraft 
Lokcheed YF-12 closes the top three 
Bell X-2 Starbuster aircraft reaches speeds in excess of 3,911 km/h
If a person is interested in aviation, then sooner or later he wonders which plane is the fastest in the world. All ships are divided into military (fighters, interceptors, attack aircraft) and civilian (passenger, transport, sanitary and postal devices). Military aircrafts develop exorbitant speed. Thanks to the unique design, the maximum speed of military aircraft is more than 3,000 kilometers per hour. Separately, it is worth highlighting the experimental vessels, which are created specifically for setting records.
Top 10 fastest planes in the history of mankind
Among the fastest aircraft in the world are:
- Drone X-43. The absolute record was set in November 2004. This hypersonic aircraft has a top speed of 11,850 kilometers per hour. NASA was involved in the creation of the vessel and the development of the program.
- Experimental North American X-15 fitted with rocket engines. The speed of the fastest manned aircraft is 8200 kilometers per hour. Experiments took place in the 60s of the last century. In addition to the incredible speed, during the record flights on the X-15 it was possible to reach an altitude of 107900 m.
- Strategic reconnaissance SR-71 Blackbird. The black bird is the fastest scout, whose speed is 4100 kilometers per hour. For all the time, only 32 devices were produced. The SR-71 Blackbird was operated by the US Air Force until 1998.
- Fighter-interceptor MiG-25. Soviet supersonic aircraft, developed as a response to American intelligence officers. Able to reach speeds of 3900 kilometers per hour. In some countries, the MiG-25 is still in service.
- Experimental Bell X-2. The ship was tested in the 50s. On one of the flights, the X-2 was able to develop a speed of 3300-3900 kilometers per hour. Due to a series of disasters, testing of the Bell X-2 ceased.
- XB-70 Valkyrie high-altitude bomber. The device was conceived as a supersonic nuclear bomber. 2 samples were produced. During the test XB-70 Valkyrie set a record. The speed of the device was 3600 kilometers per hour.
- Fighter-interceptor MiG-31. A combat ship is designed to intercept and destroy targets at low and high altitudes. MiG-31 develops a speed of 3400 kilometers per hour.
- Fighter McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle. Fast aircraft of the fourth generation. F-15 Eagle develops 3066 kilometers per hour. The ship is operated by many countries including the USA, Japan and Israel.
- Tactical bomber General Dynamics F-111. A decommissioned ship. F-111, if necessary, could develop a speed of 3060 kilometers per hour.
- Multipurpose fighter Su-27. The speed of the device is 2870 kilometers per hour. Modifications have improved characteristics. The Su-27 has been discontinued, but is still in service.
Experimental aircraft reach values exceeding the speed of sound by 3–7 times. It is likely that the established records will be broken in the near future.
Top 5 fastest passenger planes today
The main feature of passenger airliners is safety, so they are inferior in speed to military ships. During the Soviet period, the Tu-144 supersonic liner was operated for a short period of time. Due to difficulties in operation, the use of the Tu-144 was abandoned. Today, the fastest aircraft in the world are:
It is worth noting that choosing the fastest aircraft in the world is not so easy. Passenger liners have approximately the same cruising speed. Pilots rarely go to the maximum, maintaining values of 900-950 kilometers per hour.
The fastest military aircraft in service
In addition to advanced characteristics, military equipment must be affordable and easy to operate. The following fast aircraft are in service with the Russian Aerospace Forces:
- MiG-29;
- Su-34;
- Su-35.
Among the supersonic fighters of the US Air Force are:
- F-22 Raptor;
- F-35 Lightning;
- F-16 Fighting Falcon.
The following supersonic fighters are in service with the Chinese Air Force:
- Chengdu J-20;
- Xian JH-7;
- Shenyang J-11.
The F-15 and MiG-31 are considered the fastest military aircraft in the world. It is worth noting that many countries buy American, Chinese or Russian equipment for their own armed forces. The listed fighters are considered popular and bought. When choosing military aircraft, the following characteristics are studied: payload, fuel supply, thrust without afterburner. Speed - is not considered the most important parameter, however, attention is also focused on this indicator.
The fastest aircraft in the world are made in the USA, Russia and China. More advanced models are being developed. Today, the United States already has the 5th generation F-22 Raptor fighter, 187 units of equipment have been produced. Russia is pinning its hopes on the Su-57 under development to replace obsolete models.
The fastest Russian aircraft
Without a doubt, the fastest Soviet-made aircraft is the MiG-25.
In terms of speed, this device surpasses the MiG-29 and other modern models that are in service in the Russian Federation. In addition to military vehicles, civil ships are being created in the country. The fastest aircraft in Russia are:
- Tu-22M;
- Su-35;
Allocate military turboprop aircraft Tu-95, which is capable of carrying Kh-101 cruise missiles. The Tu-95 does not reach supersonic levels, but at the same time the device has stealth from satellites and low fuel consumption. Tu-95 is a serial bomber. There are 60 vehicles in service.
Among the operated passenger airliners, the Sukhoi Superjet 100 is distinguished. The Superjet 100 is rightfully called the Russian aircraft, since the vessel was designed and built in the Russian Federation.
There are no civilian operated supersonic liners in Russia and in the world. There are plans to create supersonic passenger airliners (Tu-244, Tu-344), but in the near future the projects will not be implemented due to economic disadvantage and environmental requirements.
If you want to know which Russian aircraft is the fastest, we study information about modifications of Soviet aircraft and ships developed and produced after the collapse of the USSR.
Su-27 - 2500 km / h
The Su-27 is a fourth-generation Soviet/Russian multipurpose highly maneuverable all-weather heavy fighter developed by the Sukhoi Company. It was conceived as a direct competitor to large fourth-generation fighters designed in the United States, such as the Grumman F-14 Tomcat and F-15 Eagle. The first flight of the Su-27 prototype took place on May 20, 1977, and in 1985 it entered service with the Soviet Air Force. Today it is one of the main fighters of Russia, its modifications are in service with India, China and many other countries.
General Dynamics F-111 - 2655 km / h
The General Dynamics F-111 is an American supersonic tactical bomber, aerial reconnaissance and electronic warfare aircraft developed in the 1960s by General Dynamics. He made his first flight on December 21, 1964, and was put into operation on July 18, 1967. He took part in the fighting in Vietnam. In total, 562 examples were produced for the US Air Force and the Australian Air Force during the production period.
McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle - 2665 km/h
The McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle is an all-weather tactical fighter developed in the early 70s by McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing), commissioned by the US Air Force to gain air superiority. Its first flight took place in July 1972. In 1974 it was put into operation. Exported to Israel, Japan, Singapore and Saudi Arabia.
MiG-31 - 3000 km / h
The MiG-31 is a two-seat supersonic heavy interceptor fighter. Work on its creation began at RAC MiG PJSC in 1968. The first flight took place on September 16, 1975. The aircraft was built on the basis of a single-seat MiG-25, primarily to cover the territory of the USSR from being hit by cruise missiles from the Arctic, where there was no continuous radar field. It is the first Soviet fighter of the fourth generation.
North American XB-70 Valkyrie - 3309 km / h
The North American XB-70 Valkyrie is a prototype of an American strategic bomber that was supposed to fly at an altitude of 21 thousand meters at a speed three times the speed of sound. Only two examples were built. The first experimental XB-70 Valkyrie aircraft first flew on September 21, 1964, the second on July 17, 1965. One of the aircraft is now in the National Museum of the US Air Force near Dayton, Ohio. The second on June 8, 1966, while flying in formation of several aircraft, collided in the air with a Lockheed F-104 Starfighter fighter, fell to the ground and completely collapsed.
Bell X-2 - 3370 km / h
Bell X-2 is an American experimental aircraft designed to study aerodynamic and thermodynamic characteristics during flight at speeds from 2 to 3 Mach (Mach number). Its development began in 1945 by the Bell Aircraft Corporation in cooperation with NACA and the US Air Force. The creation of the X-2 aircraft was completed in 1952, and in 1953 its testing began. Only two examples were built. Both crashed, after which the research was stopped.
MiG-25 - 3470 km / h
The MiG-25 is a supersonic Soviet / Russian fighter and reconnaissance aircraft, the world's first serial fighter that reached a speed of more than 3 thousand km / h. It was developed by JSC RSK MiG in the early 1960s. It is the last aircraft designed by Mikhail Gurevich before his retirement. The first flight of the prototype took place in 1965, and in 1970 it was put into operation. A total of 1190 copies were produced.
Lockheed YF-12 - 3661 km / h
The third place in the list of the fastest manned aircraft in the world is occupied by the Lockheed YF-12, an American interceptor prototype developed by the famous aircraft designer Clarence Johnson based on the Lockheed A-12 high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft. This aircraft is the world's largest manned interceptor. It first took to the air on August 7, 1963. A total of three YF-12s were produced, each valued at approximately $18 million. After a series of flight tests, the project was closed.
Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird - 3818 km / h
The Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird is an American strategic reconnaissance aircraft developed in the late 50s by Lockheed based on the Lockheed A-12 aircraft. It is the first aircraft created using stealth technology. Its first flight took place on December 22, 1964. He was in service with the United States from 1964 to 1998 and was actively used for espionage. A total of 32 aircraft were produced, 12 of which crashed in accidents (none were shot down).
North American X-15 - 7274 km / h
The North American X-15 is a hypersonic experimental rocket plane that has set a number of world speed and altitude records (107.96 km). Work on its creation began in 1955 and was entrusted to North American Aviation. A total of three prototypes were produced. On March 10, 1959, the car took to the air for the first time. Over the course of nine years - from 1959 to 1968, out of the planned 200 test flights, the X-15 carried out 199. The record was the flight of the pilot Joe Walker on August 22, 1963.
