Which Fighter Jet Holds the Advantage in Visual Range Combat: Sukhoi Su-35, Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon, or F-22?

When discussing 'dogfighting,' we're talking about situations where fighters can visually lock onto and engage each other. In this context, the Eurofighter Typhoon generally has the edge over all other contemporary fighters. It boasts the highest sustainable turn rate, the highest sustainable climb rate, and carries identical or better missiles. Additionally, it can fire the world's best short-range air-to-air missile, the IRIS-T, at extreme off-boresight angles using its unique millimeter wave radar.

Superiorities of the Eurofighter Typhoon

The Typhoon has a slight overall advantage in 'dogfighting' scenarios. Both the Dassault Rafale and the Sukhoi Su-35 come in close second, but in specific exercises, these jets often found themselves on the losing end of 'Raptor Salad,' a derogatory term used when an F-22 defeated them in training.

Comparison Against the Dassault Rafale

The Dassault Rafale is a formidable opponent, but it still falls slightly behind the Eurofighter Typhoon. Both have similar or better missiles, but the Typhoon's missile approach warner systems allow it to fire the IRIS-T missile at 360-degree angles, giving it a significant advantage. The Rafale, while powerful, doesn't quite match the Typhoon's offensive capabilities in close combat.

Shortcomings of the F-22

The F-22 Raptor is known for its advanced stealth technology and impressive performance in stealth and long-range engagements. However, when it comes to purely dogfighting, it falls short. The F-22 lacks an effective defense suite, such as the Typhoon's and Rafale's maneuverable missile systems and ECM (Electronic Countermeasure) capabilities. Furthermore, it cannot fire its AIM-9M or AIM-9X missiles as effectively at extreme off-boresight angles as the Typhoon and Rafale can. Once it fires its first missile, the second missile has a severely obstructed field of view, limiting its combat potential.

Threat of the Sukhoi Su-35

The Sukhoi Su-35, while a formidable adversary, would likely be outmatched by the Eurofighter Typhoon and Dassault Rafale in a visual range combat scenario. The Typhoon's advantages in turn rate, climb rate, and missile capabilities make it a superior choice for close-range engagements. However, countries like Iran and Syria, which do not have access to Eurofighter Typhoons or Dassault Rafales, might find the Su-35 a more viable option.

Metaphor of the Gunfight in the Dark

To illustrate the concept, imagine a gunfight in total darkness. Four fighters—three with Smith and Wesson Model 29, 44-magnum pistols, and one known as the 'Raptor'—bring along a FLIR night vision headset and a suppressor. The other three fighters, while powerful, are not equipped with the same advantages. This metaphor highlights how the F-22 Raptor's advanced technology and capabilities give it a significant edge in close-range combat, even if retroactively.

Conclusion

While each fighter jet has its strengths, the Eurofighter Typhoon stands out in visual range combat due to its superior maneuverability, missile capabilities, and offensive weapons systems. The Dassault Rafale is a close second, followed by the Sukhoi Su-35, and lastly, the F-22 Raptor. Understanding these capabilities is crucial for military strategists and aviation enthusiasts alike.