What makes the F-35 a fifth-generation fighter?

The designation of the F-35 as a fifth-generation fighter is primarily attributed to its advanced stealth capabilities and sensor fusion technology. Stealth allows the aircraft to evade detection by enemy radar and other tracking systems, making it significantly more survivable in contested environments. This is achieved through a combination of its shape, materials, and design features that minimize its radar cross-section.

Sensor fusion refers to the aircraft's ability to integrate and analyze data from multiple sensors, creating a comprehensive picture of the battlefield. This capability enhances situational awareness for pilots, allowing them to make informed decisions quickly and effectively. The F-35 is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, radar, and electronic warfare systems, which are critical components of a fifth-generation fighter, enabling it to operate in a networked environment alongside other platforms.

The emphasis on both stealth and sensor fusion distinguishes the F-35 and similar fifth-generation fighters from earlier generations, which may excel in speed, agility, or payload capacity but do not combine these advanced characteristics in the same integral way.