Rafale, F-15EX & Gripen: Why 4th gen jets are bagging billion-dollar orders in age of 6th-gen

Nations are increasingly ordering fourth- and 4.5-generation fighters as they are cost-effective and readily available. France’s Rafale and the US F-15EX are prominent examples of this trend. Various countries, including Ukraine and Colombia, have made commitments to acquire these aircraft. Fourth-generation fighters remain effective with capabilities that complement fifth-generation fighters. Their operational advantages indicate that they will continue to play a significant role in air forces.