Categorization of fighter jets in generations is a classification system used around the world. I have always maintained that this is a broad concept with hazy demarcation lines. Although dependent upon the advancement of technology it does not define specific features or capabilities and has a large scope for difference of opinion. Recent discussion with Former CAS, Air Chief Marshal NC Suri, triggered the quest for further research and study of the subject. Sharing few of the related aspects.
Classification. Relevant aspects are as follows:
- This method of categorization is unofficial because there is no authorized classification concept based on features or performance of aircraft.
- There is no clearly defined line between successive generations. Different authorities have identified different technology jumps as the key ones, dividing fighter development into different numbers of generations.
- Each category represents a certain class of technology used in the aircraft: avionics, systems, design, features, engines and weapons etc. Higher generation means a more technologically advanced aircraft.
- A Generational shift in jet fighter aircraft occurs when a technological innovation cannot be incorporated into an existing aircraft through upgrades and retrospective fit-outs.
- The criteria for the various generations are not universally accepted and are subject to differing opinions.
Genesis.
- The origin of the generational categorization of jet combat aircraft is debatable.
- The usage appears to have first appeared in Russia during the mid-1990s when officials were planning a competitor to the American Joint Strike Fighter. They categorized previous fighters into four categories and concluded that the next one would be in the fifth generation.
- Aviation Week correspondent Bill Sweetman claims it originated from within Lockheed Martin’s business development machine shortly after the X-35 was declared the successful JSF solution in 2001.
Previous attempts at Classification
- In 1990 air historian Richard P. Hallion proposed a classification of jet fighters into six generations up to that time. Some others classified them into five generations up to around the same period.
- Taylor and Guilmartin named four classifications based on the maximum speed; subsonic, transonic, supersonic and Mach 2, and added a fifth “new” generation with multi-mission capability.
- Russian and Chinese observers also categorize aircraft into generations, albeit with differing and broader definitions across fewer generations that relate more towards their own platforms and capabilities.
Accepted Classification Norms. In 2004 Aerospaceweb listed division into five generations. The basic classification into five generations has since been widely accepted. Regardless of their origins Five generations are now widely recognised, with development of a sixth under way. Some accounts have subdivided the 4th generation into 4 and 4.5, or 4+ and 4++.
Coming Up: Generation wise description
References:
https://www.airforce-technology.com/features/top-sixth-generation-fighter-jets/
https://www.sldinfo.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Air-Combat-Seminar-summary-AndrewMcL.pdf
https://www.fighterworld.com.au/az-of-fighter-aircraft/five-generations-of-jets
http://www.codeonemagazine.com/archives/2005/articles/oct_05/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fifth_generation_fighter
https://migflug.com/jetflights/fighter-jet-generations/
http://www.aerospaceweb.org/question/history/q0182.shtml
Comments and value additions are most welcome