Choosing the right fighter jet in Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown can drastically alter your success rate across various campaign stages. Selecting an aircraft tailored to specific mission objectives allows players to clear objectives faster and earn higher ranks. Understanding which planes excel in dogfights, ground strikes, and mixed operations is key to mastering the game.

Top Air Dominance Fighters for Dogfighting

Missions focused primarily on dogfighting and intercepting enemy aircraft demand high speed and tight turning capabilities. The F-22A Raptor remains a top-tier choice for air superiority due to its exceptional mobility and long-range air-to-air missiles. Its agility allows pilots to quickly outmaneuver aggressive enemy aces during intense dogfights.

Another outstanding option for aerial combat is the Su-35S, which offers fantastic turn rates and powerful special weapons. It performs exceptionally well against agile boss targets and fast-moving drone swarms. Selecting these specialized air-to-air jets ensures you remain dominant in dogfights throughout the story.

Best Ground Attack Jets for Strike Operations

When operations require destroying heavily fortified naval fleets, supply bases, or armored columns, dedicated attack aircraft shine. The Su-34 Fullback stands out as one of the best choices for heavy air-to-ground strikes. Equipped with cluster bombs and specialized anti-ground missiles, it effortlessly clears dense formations of surface targets.

For missions with sprawling ground targets like Fleet Destruction, planes capable of launching long-range land-attack missiles are invaluable. Using jets like the Gripen E or Rafale M with LACM secondary weapons allows you to eliminate defenses from a safe distance. These ground-focused loadouts dramatically shorten mission completion times.

Versatile Multirole Aircraft for Complex Operations

Many campaign levels feature shifting objectives that require attacking ground targets before engaging wave after wave of enemy fighters. Multirole fighters provide the ideal balance of speed, defense, and weapon variety needed for these dynamic scenarios. The F-15E Strike Eagle and F-35C Lightning II are legendary options capable of handling both air and ground threats effectively.

For players seeking ultimate end-game performance, the X-02S Strike Wyvern offers unparalleled versatility. Equipping it with a railgun or anti-ship missiles makes it lethal against any enemy type in the skies or on the ground. Mastering multirole jets guarantees you are prepared for unexpected tactical surprises.