War Thunder: Best Planes in the Game (2025 Update)

Looking for the best planes in War Thunder? Similar to the best tanks in the game, the range and variation of planes is unbelievable in the game, and picking the best of the best might seem like a challenge.

But this updated list is perfect if you’re looking to dominate the air, rack up kills, and fly the most effective machines available this year.

You’ll find the absolute top dogs in competitive matches, some alternatives for every nation, and a few legendary classics that still pack a punch. Let’s begin!

F-14B Tomcat (USA)

America’s F-14B Tomcat continues to set the standard for air superiority, after all these years. If you want a plane that can do it all: long-range missile sniping, brutal dogfights, and flexible ground attack, this is the jet you need.

The Tomcat’s radar locks targets before they even see you coming, and its all-aspect AIM-54 Phoenix missiles are feared by everyone.

The flight model is forgiving, you get superb acceleration, and it’s one of the rare jets that feels powerful in every situation. Veteran or not, flying the F-14B feels like you’re in command of the skies and your enemies will feel that too.

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MiG-29SMT (USSR/Russia)

Russia’s answer to the Tomcat, this is also a beast in its own right. This jet brings super-fast speed, tight turns, and a missile loadout that can make you second-guess your life choices.

With R-27 and R-73 missiles, you are prepared for both long-range picks and deadly close-in dogfights. Its advanced avionics and radar systems make tracking and engaging even stealthy targets feel easy.

What makes the MiG-29SMT special is its handling: you can climb, boom and zoom, or outmaneuver almost any foe at top BR. If you love aggressive flying, this is your ride!

Su-27 & J-11A (Russia/China)

If you’re looking for brute force, the Su-27 (and/or its Chinese twin, the J-11A) are the jets you were looking for. They dominate with their size, missile capacity, and turning ability at high speed.

The Su-27/J-11A can carry a wide range of deadly air-to-air missiles and have enough power to chase down almost anything in the game.

After you play them a bit and get used to handling them, these are some of the most feared aircraft at Rank 8–9, and they’re a favorite in squadron battles for good reason.

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JAS39 Gripen (Sweden)

Sweden’s JAS39 Gripen proves that smaller nations can play at the top, too. This fighter combines incredible acceleration, sharp turning, and some of the best modern avionics in the game.

The Gripen’s radar is among the most advanced, letting you pick targets in chaotic situations, and it supports the latest IR and radar-guided missiles.

If you like flying smart, mainly using technology and energy management over brute force, the Gripen is the plane you need. It’s not easy to master, but once you manage to do it, it’s deadly in the game.

F-16C Block 50 (USA/Allies)

The F-16C Block 50 is a classic that’s only gotten stronger with each patch, and one of my favorites for years. This jet is all about maneuverability and multirole capability, which is perfect in multiple scenarios.

It can go toe-to-toe with the newest top-tier jets and is incredibly forgiving for players who want a blend of speed, agility, and firepower. Its radar and missile options are top-tier, and you can customize your loadout for air superiority or ground attack.

F-15J (Japan)

Japan’s F-15J is a new release, but one that immediately shot to the top of my charts. Its speed, climb rate, and all-aspect missile loadout make it a serious threat in any match.

The F-15J stands out for its ability to dominate both at long range and in dogfights. With its advanced avionics and massive power, it’s the best air superiority option for anyone grinding the Japanese tree.

Mirage 2000-5F (France)

The Mirage 2000-5F is France’s ultimate answer to modern jet warfare. It’s agile, supremely fast, and sports an advanced weapon suite.

Where the Mirage really shines is in energy retention and hit-and-run tactics in War Thunder. With Matra Super 530 and Magic 2 missiles, you can snipe enemies at range or punish them up close.

If you love hit-and-fade gameplay and want a plane that rewards skilled hands, the Mirage 2000-5F deserves a place in your lineup.

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Legendary Planes & Fan Favorites (Props and Early Jets)

Not everyone plays at top tier, and not every battle needs the latest, most amazing plane in the game if you’re looking for pure entertainment. Below, I am listing a few of my past (and current) favorites – solid planes that generally stood the test of time well and are great picks, either for their fun factor, ease of use, or dominance at lower BRs.

• XP-50 (USA): The classic climb-and-boom energy fighter, perfect for learning positioning and energy management at low rank.
• Yak-3P (USSR): One of the smoothest props in the game, with deadly cannons and a high skill ceiling.
• G.56 (Italy): A duelist’s dream, with amazing speed, guns, and energy retention for its rank.
• F-4C Phantom II (USA): The jet that defined a generation; now outclassed, but still incredibly fun and iconic – you play this one for the nostalgia, if you’re one of the veterans.
• F-86F-2 Sabre (USA): Another legendary plane, and all that for a reason. It has great handling, excellent guns, and is a must-play for classic jet fans.

Wrapping Up

This list of the best planes in War Thunder comprises of all playing styles and types of fighter jets. Regardless of which mode you’re playing and whether you’re a beginner or not, these planes should do a pretty good job.

Try them out, experiment with different nations and playstyles, and, most importantly, fly the planes that make you love the game. If you’ve got a favorite that isn’t on this list but you think it should be, leave a comment down below.

And if you want some more options, check our list of the Best PC City Building Games to Play.