As humans, our fascination with speed has been ingrained since the invention of the engine. From cars to motorcycles to yachts, the quest for speed has been relentless. However, a pivotal moment in history saw someone take a leap into the skies by attaching wings to the engine, forever changing the world.
Today, the sky teems with flying machines that were unimaginable just two centuries ago. Some of these machines achieve incredible speeds. While we acknowledge the airplane as the fastest mode of transportation, covering continents in mere hours, it’s essential to recognize the truly exceptional—planes that transcend the reach of the average traveler, reserved for a select few. These are the fastest planes of all time, predominantly fighter jets and experimental aircraft continuously pushing the boundaries of speed.
If you’re intrigued by the world of high-speed aviation, let’s delve into the list. It’s important to note that Mach numbers are altitude-dependent, and different sources may provide varying figures in mph for the same Mach speed. For consistency, we’ve specified Mach speed at sea level. Fasten your seatbelts, and let’s explore!
15. Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-23 Flogger – 1,553 mph / Mach 2.04
The MiG-23 Flogger, a variable-sweep wing fighter, responded to the USAF’s F-14 Tomcat. Produced from 1970 to 1985, it became the most heavily produced military aircraft in history. Despite no longer being in operation in the Russian Air Force, some nations, including North Korea and Angola, still deploy it. With unofficial top speeds of 1,553 mph or Mach 2.04, the MiG-23 left its mark in conflicts during the 1980s and 1990s.
14. Sukhoi SU-27 Flanker – 1,600 mph / Mach 2.08
Widely regarded as one of the finest fighters of the 1990s, the SU-27 Flanker, an air superiority fighter, remains operational and in production since its 1985 introduction in the Soviet Union Air Force. Capable of speeds reaching 1,600 mph or Mach 2.08, its success birthed various variants and modifications.
13. McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II – 1,606 mph / Mach 2.09
While an older aircraft, the F-4 Phantom II proved invaluable to the US Navy and Air Force between 1958 and 1981. Serving as a long-range supersonic interceptor and fighter-bomber, it shattered airspeed records during the Vietnam War. With a top speed of 1,606 mph or Mach 2.09, its efficiency led to a lasting impact, remaining in service in some countries, including Greece.
12. General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark – 1,650 mph / Mach 2.15 Despite being lesser-known, the F-111 Aardvark, a multipurpose combat aircraft, achieved impressive feats, including a top speed of 1,650 mph or Mach 2.15. In service during the Cold War, its capabilities ranged from ground attack to electronic warfare. While retired, it held a strategic role as the USAF’s primary strike aircraft.
11. McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle – 1,650 mph / Mach 2.15
Since its 1972 introduction, the F-15E Strike Eagle remains in service and is celebrated as one of the best American aircraft. Capable of reaching speeds of 1,650 mph or Mach 2.15, it excels in air-to-air combat and ground strike capabilities. Derived from the F-15 Eagle, it played a significant role in the Operation Desert Storm in 1991.
10. Mikoyan Gurevich Ye-166 – 1,665 mph / Mach 2.17
Although a fictitious designation, the Ye-166 represents the Ye-152-1 aircraft used for world record registration. A prototype that never materialized, the Ye-166 reached speeds of 1,665 mph or Mach 2.17 in 1962.
9. Chengdu J-10 Firebird – 1,687 mph / Mach 2.21
Inspired by Western aircraft, the Chinese Chengdu J-10 Vigorous Dragon, or Firebird, serves as a multirole fighter. Developed since 1988, it aims to rival fourth-generation fighters. While not matching the Eurofighter Typhoon or the American F-16 in performance, it reached speeds of 1,687 mph or Mach 2.21.
8. Mikoyan Gurevich Ye-152 Flipper – 1,700 mph / Mach 2.28
As part of the Ye-150 family, the Ye-152 Flipper was an evolution of earlier prototypes. Overcoming challenges with engines and fuselage modifications, it achieved speeds of up to 1,700 mph or Mach 2.28.
7. Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-31 Foxhound – 1,900 mph / Mach 2.47
Replacing the MiG-25, the MiG-31 Foxhound entered service in 1982 as a long-range interceptor. It set records for altitude and climb rate. With a primary focus on speed, it achieved Mach 2.47 or 1,900 mph. Expected to remain in service until 2030, it plays a crucial role in Russia’s air defense.
6. North American XB-70 Valkyrie – 2,056 mph / Mach 2.67
Designed to outpace interceptor aircraft, the XB-70 Valkyrie, a prototype for the intended B-70 nuclear bomber, reached speeds of 2,056 mph or Mach 2.67. Despite not entering service due to advancements in surface-to-air missile systems, its innovative design remains iconic.
5. Bell X-2 Starbuster – 2,094 mph / Mach 2.72
As a research aircraft and descendant of the X-1, the Bell X-2 Starbuster set records under rocket power. Captain Millburn Apt, its pilot, became the first to fly more than three times the speed of sound, reaching 2,094 mph or Mach 2.72.
4. Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-25 Foxbat – 2,190 mph / Mach 2.85
A Soviet masterpiece, the MiG-25 Foxbat garnered NATO’s attention with its exceptional maneuverability and speed. Capable of reaching 2,190 mph or Mach 2.85, it influenced the development of US aircraft during the Cold War.
3. Lockheed YF-12 – 2,274 mph / Mach 2.96
The YF-12 served as the prototype for the SR-71 Blackbird. Despite only three being built, it achieved a top speed of 2,274 mph or Mach 2.96 before the project was halted due to resource reallocation to the Vietnam War.
2. Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird – 2,500 mph / Mach 3.28
Legendary in the world of aviation, the SR-71 Blackbird, derived from the YF-12, is a long-range strategic reconnaissance stealth aircraft. Operating at high altitudes, it achieves a top speed of 2,500 mph or Mach 3.28. With cruising speeds at Mach 3.2, it remains unparalleled in entering enemy airspace and gathering intelligence.
1. North American X-15 – 4,520 mph / Mach 5.93
The fastest aircraft in the world, the X-15 was a hypersonic rocket-powered experimental aircraft used by NASA and the USAF. Retired in 1968 after 199 flights, it holds the speed record at an astonishing 4,520 mph or Mach 5.93. At an altitude of 102,100 feet, it reached Mach 6.7.
In conclusion, these aircraft have etched their names in history, achieving legendary status with remarkable altitude and speed records. As mankind’s quest for higher speeds and altitudes persists, the skies remain a realm of ongoing innovation and discovery. Who knows what groundbreaking developments are currently underway, shrouded in secrecy? The journey into the unexplored realms of flight continues.
