Looking for the best aircraft in Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve? Our complete Ace Combat 8 aircraft tier list ranks all 34 playable planes, from powerful stealth fighters and versatile multirole jets to dedicated ground attackers and electronic warfare aircraft.
Before looking at the rankings, it helps to understand how we compare aircraft.
A powerful fighter does not automatically outperform an attacker during a ground-heavy mission. Similarly, a plane with excellent ground weapons may struggle when surrounded by fast enemy fighters.
We evaluate aircraft using several important factors.
Air-to-air performance: How well an aircraft is suited to fighting enemy planes, intercepting targets, and maintaining pressure during dogfights. Speed, maneuverability, and suitable missile options are especially important.
Ground attack capabilities: How useful an aircraft is when destroying vehicles, fortified positions, ships, and other surface targets. A strong ground attacker should make these objectives manageable without exposing itself unnecessarily.
Special weapons: A plane's available special weapons can dramatically change its usefulness. Multi-target missiles, guided air-to-ground weapons, and electronic warfare systems all serve different purposes.
Versatility: Aircraft that can handle both airborne and ground-based enemies receive extra credit. This makes them particularly attractive when mission objectives change.
Practical accessibility: An aircraft that players can acquire relatively early may offer better immediate value than an advanced plane that requires major progression or special access.
Campaign and multiplayer usefulness: We consider both environments, but remember that Ace Combat Online has separate aircraft acquisition and progression.
Our rankings use four tiers.
S Tier — Best Overall Aircraft
Outstanding aircraft with excellent combat potential, advanced capabilities, or impressive flexibility.
A Tier — Strong Aircraft
Highly effective planes that can handle demanding missions but may have more noticeable limitations or specialized strengths.
B Tier — Good Aircraft
Reliable choices that perform well when used correctly. Many are excellent during early progression or particular mission types.
C Tier — Situational Aircraft
Older or specialized aircraft that generally require more careful mission selection. They are not useless, and some can outperform higher-tier planes in their intended roles.
These are our strongest overall recommendations for players looking for advanced fighters and highly capable aircraft.
Role: Fighter
The F-22A Raptor takes our number-one position because of its exceptional air combat potential.
Its combination of maneuverability, stealth-oriented design, and advanced weapon systems makes it an outstanding choice for pilots who enjoy aggressive aerial combat.
The Raptor is particularly attractive for missions involving powerful enemy fighters. It is also one of our first recommendations for competitive PvP.
Available special weapons include QAAM and 4AAM, giving players options for pursuing individual enemies or applying pressure to multiple airborne targets.
Its XSDB option also provides some additional flexibility.
Best for: Air superiority, difficult dogfights, and PvP.
Main drawback: Dedicated surface-attack aircraft can be more convenient for ground-heavy objectives.
Our recommendation is simple: if you want a powerful conventional fighter and primarily enjoy shooting down enemy aircraft, the F-22A is an excellent long-term target.
Role: Fighter
The Su-57 Felon is another exceptional aircraft, particularly for pilots who enjoy fast, demanding aerial battles.
Its thrust-vectoring design supports impressive maneuvering capabilities, making it a strong candidate for close-range engagements.
The Su-57 also offers useful air-to-air weapon choices, including QAAM and HCAA.
These options make it attractive when fighting difficult enemy aircraft or maintaining offensive pressure during extended engagements.
However, good maneuverability does not guarantee victory. Pilots still need to manage speed and avoid wasting missiles on poor firing opportunities.
Best for: Advanced dogfighting, air superiority, and experienced pilots.
Main drawback: Less naturally suited to dedicated ground-attack work than a strong multirole plane.
Choose the Su-57 if you enjoy challenging aerial combat and want an advanced fighter built around that experience.
Role: Multirole
The F-35C Lightning II is one of the most useful aircraft for players who want a single plane capable of handling different mission objectives.
Unlike aircraft focused almost entirely on shooting down enemy fighters, the F-35C is designed for flexibility.
Its available special weapons include HCAA, LACM, and 8AGM, providing options for air combat and attacking surface targets.
This flexibility matters during missions that require players to switch between destroying aircraft and eliminating ground threats.
The F-35C is also a particularly comfortable long-term destination for newer players who do not want to invest heavily in several different aircraft.
Best for: Mixed-objective missions, campaign progression, and versatile loadouts.
Main drawback: Dedicated top-tier fighters may be more appealing for pilots focused exclusively on air-to-air combat.
For players who want one dependable aircraft for many different situations, the F-35C is our strongest overall multirole recommendation.
Role: Multirole
The X-40 Nightmare is one of Ace Combat 8's most interesting advanced aircraft.
Its distinctive special weapon options include UAVT, EMLB, and QAAM, giving it a combat identity different from conventional aircraft.
The X-40 is especially appealing to experienced players looking for something beyond the standard fighter and attacker selection.
However, this is not an aircraft that players should build their entire first campaign around.
It becomes available through post-campaign progression and carries a substantial acquisition cost.
Best for: Endgame play, advanced weapon experimentation, and experienced pilots.
Main drawback: Late availability and expensive progression.
If you enjoy experimenting with unusual high-end weapons, the X-40 is a worthwhile goal after completing the main campaign.
Role: Fighter
The FA-36 Game is another original aircraft that stands out among Ace Combat 8's advanced options.
Its special weapon selection includes HPAA, SASM, and SOD, allowing players to experiment with different approaches to combat.
The FA-36 is particularly attractive to players who enjoy powerful aircraft but do not want to rely entirely on conventional stealth fighters.
It offers a different style of high-end combat and rewards pilots who understand how to choose weapons for their objectives.
Best for: Advanced campaign play and versatile high-end combat.
Main drawback: Post-campaign availability makes it unsuitable as an immediate beginner purchase.
The FA-36 deserves serious consideration once you have finished the campaign and want to expand your collection.
Role: Multirole
The Su-47 Berkut is one of the most recognizable aircraft in the game thanks to its forward-swept wings.
Its maneuverability makes it appealing to players who enjoy close-range engagements and aggressive flying.
Unlike a dedicated fighter, the Su-47 is officially classified as a multirole aircraft, making it an interesting option for players who want agility without abandoning mission flexibility.
The biggest advantage of the Berkut is how rewarding it can feel when flown confidently.
However, pilots who constantly make unnecessary turns or lose too much speed may struggle to take advantage of its strengths.
Best for: Skilled pilots, close-range combat, and maneuver-focused gameplay.
Main drawback: Requires confident handling to make the most of its maneuverability.
Role: Multirole
The Su-35S Flanker-E combines strong dogfighting potential with the ability to perform different combat roles.
Its thrust-vectoring nozzles and advanced avionics support impressive maneuverability.
Unlike aircraft dedicated to a single objective, the Su-35S can be useful during both air-to-air and air-to-ground engagements.
This makes it a solid alternative to the F-35C for players who prefer the Flanker family.
Best for: Flexible combat, demanding dogfights, and mixed missions.
Main drawback: Its performance depends on choosing weapons that match the mission.
The Su-35S is a strong pick for pilots who enjoy a capable multirole aircraft with aggressive aerial handling.
Role: Multirole
The ADFX-02 Morgan – PIXY is a distinctive bonus aircraft with strong appeal for longtime Ace Combat fans.
Rather than being part of ordinary first-playthrough Aircraft Tree progression, it is associated with Season 1 of the Premium Ace Pass in Ace Combat Online.
Its unusual design and advanced combat identity make it a particularly interesting aircraft for experienced players.
However, its special availability is an important consideration.
The Morgan is not a normal beginner Aircraft Tree recommendation, and its campaign use is restricted until the required campaign completion conditions are met.
Best for: Special aircraft collectors, advanced combat, and eligible online players.
Main drawback: Access restrictions and different availability conditions compared with regular aircraft.
The Morgan earns its S-Tier placement for its high-end potential, but its acquisition requirements mean it should not replace your normal aircraft progression strategy.
A-Tier planes are excellent choices for players who want powerful aircraft without necessarily chasing the absolute highest-end options.
Some also provide specialized benefits that make them particularly valuable in the right mission.
Role: Fighter
The Typhoon is a strong aircraft for pilots who want effective air-to-air combat without immediately pursuing the F-22A or Su-57.
Its available weapon options include 4AAM and LAAM, giving it useful choices for engaging airborne targets.
The Typhoon also has 8AGM as an option, adding flexibility against surface enemies.
Best for: Air combat, interception, and mixed encounters.
Main drawback: Other aircraft may provide stronger specialization for particular objectives.
The Typhoon is a great choice for pilots who want a dependable fighter with useful weapon variety.
Role: Multirole
The Rafale M is one of the most balanced aircraft in the roster.
Its strengths include maneuverability, long-range weapon options, and the ability to tackle several different mission profiles.
This makes it especially attractive when players want flexibility without sacrificing too much aerial combat effectiveness.
Best for: Mixed objectives, air combat, and naval-related missions.
Main drawback: It may not be the strongest specialist in every individual combat role.
Choose the Rafale M if you want a responsive multirole aircraft with a useful balance between air and surface combat.
Role: Electronic Warfare
The EA-36 Barricader stands apart from ordinary fighters because of its electronic warfare specialization.
Its available weapon systems include IEWS, 4AAM, and XSDB.
This combination gives players options for supporting combat operations while still contributing offensively.
Electronic warfare aircraft are particularly interesting in multiplayer environments where teamwork and target selection matter.
Best for: Advanced electronic warfare and coordinated combat.
Main drawback: Its support-oriented capabilities require a different approach from conventional dogfighting.
Pilots who prefer assisting team objectives rather than chasing every enemy fighter should consider the EA-36.
Role: Multirole
The F/A-18E Super Hornet offers a useful combination of combat flexibility and weapon options.
Its available special weapons include 6AAM, SOD, and QAAM, supporting different offensive approaches.
This makes it attractive to players who enjoy aerial engagements but still want an aircraft capable of handling more varied objectives.
Best for: Air combat and flexible offensive missions.
Main drawback: More advanced aircraft offer greater overall late-game appeal.
Role: Multirole
The F/A-18F Super Hornet is a twin-seat carrier-based strike aircraft with useful all-around capabilities.
Its available weapons include LASM, 4AAM, and GPB.
This is an appealing combination for pilots who want to handle airborne enemies and naval or surface targets.
Best for: Carrier operations, mixed objectives, and naval combat.
Main drawback: Its performance is more balanced than exceptional in one particular category.
The F/A-18F is an especially attractive choice for players who want a practical aircraft rather than a highly specialized machine.
Role: Multirole
The Gripen E is a lightweight aircraft designed for several different combat roles.
It offers good flexibility without relying on the size or design of heavier fighters.
Its available special weapons include SASM, 6AGM, and LAAM, allowing players to tailor it to different objectives.
Best for: Flexible missions, tactical flying, and players who prefer lighter aircraft.
Main drawback: It may be less attractive than high-end aircraft for the most demanding encounters.
The Gripen E is a good option if you want a compact, adaptable aircraft with varied weapons.
Role: Fighter
The F-15C Eagle remains an excellent choice for players who value speed, maneuverability, and dependable air combat.
Its available special weapons include 4AAM, HCAA, and SASM.
These options make it a solid aircraft for intercepting enemies and dealing with aerial threats.
Best for: Traditional air superiority and aerial interception.
Main drawback: Limited ground-attack specialization compared with multirole aircraft.
The F-15C is an easy recommendation for players who love classic fighter jets.
Role: Fighter
The F-15J Eagle is another strong air superiority option.
Its updated avionics and high-performance guided missile capabilities make it appealing during airborne engagements.
Players who enjoy the F-15 family should compare the F-15J with the F-15C before committing to one.
Best for: Interception and dedicated fighter missions.
Main drawback: Like the F-15C, it is less naturally suited to surface-heavy objectives.
Role: Fighter
The F-14D Super Tomcat is an excellent choice for pilots who enjoy classic carrier-based aircraft.
Its variable-sweep wings and long-range missile focus give it a distinctive combat style.
Available special weapons include LAAM, SAAM, and GPB.
This provides useful options for long-range interception and certain surface engagements.
Best for: Long-range air combat and classic fighter enthusiasts.
Main drawback: Modern high-end fighters offer stronger overall recommendations.
The Super Tomcat is still a rewarding aircraft when its strengths match the mission.
Role: Electronic Warfare
The EA-18G Growler is a specialized electronic warfare aircraft developed from the Super Hornet family.
Its available options include ESM, ECM, and 2AAM.
Rather than focusing entirely on individual aircraft kills, the Growler provides a different approach to supporting combat operations.
Best for: Electronic warfare and coordinated missions.
Main drawback: Not designed to compete directly with elite air superiority fighters.
Players interested in support-oriented flying should give the Growler serious consideration.
B-Tier aircraft are not bad planes.
Many are extremely useful during the early and middle stages of progression, while others serve as effective alternatives when your mission requires their particular strengths.
Role: Attacker
The F-15E Strike Eagle combines air combat heritage with stronger ground-attack capabilities.
Its available weapons include XSDB, SFFS, and HCAA.
This makes it a good choice for pilots who want an attacker that still has useful options against airborne threats.
Best for: Ground attacks and mixed combat operations.
Main drawback: Pure air superiority fighters are more appealing for dedicated dogfights.
Role: Fighter
The F-16C Fighting Falcon is a practical fighter for pilots who want a responsive aircraft without immediately investing in an advanced jet.
Its available weapons include 2AAM, QAAM, and LAGM.
This gives it useful flexibility for an aircraft officially classified as a fighter.
Best for: Early-to-mid progression and general fighter gameplay.
Main drawback: Lower overall high-end potential compared with advanced fighters.
Role: Multirole
The Su-33 Flanker-D offers a useful balance of carrier operation capabilities and maneuverability.
Its canard-wing design supports stability and maneuvering at low-to-medium speeds.
It is a reasonable choice for pilots who like the Flanker aircraft family but want a carrier-capable alternative.
Best for: Carrier-based operations and mixed combat.
Main drawback: More advanced multirole aircraft offer stronger long-term potential.
Role: Multirole
The Mirage 2000-5 is a lightweight multirole aircraft with balanced speed and maneuverability.
Its available weapons include UGB, 4AAM, and LASM.
These options give it useful flexibility against different target types.
Best for: Early-to-mid progression and balanced missions.
Main drawback: Less overall combat potential than advanced multirole aircraft.
The Mirage 2000-5 is especially useful for learning how to switch between different combat responsibilities.
Role: Multirole
The F/A-18C Hornet is the starting aircraft, and it remains useful even after additional planes become available.
Its available weapons include 4AAM, UGB, and LASM.
This makes it capable of tackling several different combat objectives without requiring players to immediately buy a replacement.
Best for: Beginners, early missions, and MRP conservation.
Main drawback: Eventually outclassed by more advanced multirole aircraft.
Do not rush to replace your starting Hornet. Learning its weapon options and improving your flying can be more valuable than spending MRP on an upgrade you do not actually need.
Role: Attacker
The F-2A is particularly well suited to maritime interdiction.
Its design supports attacks against naval targets while retaining useful aerial combat capability.
For players encountering missions with ships or other surface targets, the F-2A is worth considering.
Best for: Naval strikes and surface-focused missions.
Main drawback: Less appealing for constant high-intensity dogfighting.
Role: Attacker
The Su-34 Fullback is a heavily armed strike aircraft with useful defensive capabilities.
Its main appeal comes from its suitability for attacking surface targets without being completely helpless against aerial threats.
This makes it an interesting option for players who enjoy powerful strike aircraft.
Best for: Ground-heavy missions and strike operations.
Main drawback: Dedicated fighters remain stronger choices for extended air superiority combat.
Role: Fighter
The MiG-29A Fulcrum is a strong choice for players who enjoy close-range aerial combat.
Its turning capability makes it particularly appealing during maneuvering engagements.
However, pilots still need to manage speed and choose their opportunities carefully.
Best for: Close-range dogfighting and classic fighter gameplay.
Main drawback: Advanced fighters offer stronger all-around performance.
Role: Attacker
The A-10C Thunderbolt II is one of the most recognizable ground-attack aircraft in the game.
Its durable design and heavy weapons make it especially attractive when attacking ground forces.
Available special weapons include 4AGM, UGB, and RKT.
These options are useful for missions where eliminating surface threats matters more than chasing fast-moving aircraft.
Best for: Ground attacks and close air support.
Main drawback: Poorer suitability for high-speed interception and demanding fighter engagements.
The A-10C sits in B Tier because of its limited overall versatility, not because it is weak at its intended job.
For a dedicated ground-attack mission, the A-10C can easily be a better choice than several aircraft ranked above it.
Role: Fighter
The MiG-31B Foxhound is built around high-speed interception and long-range air combat.
Its strengths make it appealing during missions where reaching distant airborne enemies is more important than extended close-range turning battles.
Best for: High-speed interception and long-range engagements.
Main drawback: Less flexible when missions require sustained maneuvering or mixed-objective combat.
The Foxhound rewards pilots who approach engagements with a clear interception plan.
C-Tier planes can still perform well, particularly when used for their intended roles.
However, they usually require more careful mission selection or offer less overall versatility than higher-ranked alternatives.
Role: Attacker
The Su-25SM Frogfoot is designed for close air support and attacks against surface targets.
Its durable construction is useful during ground-focused operations.
However, its specialization makes it a less comfortable choice when missions involve demanding aerial engagements.
Best for: Ground support and early dedicated attack missions.
Main drawback: Limited overall versatility.
Role: Fighter
The F-14A Tomcat is a classic carrier-based fighter associated with Ace Combat 8's preorder bonus.
Its long-range interception identity makes it appealing to fans of older fighter aircraft.
However, access depends on having the appropriate bonus entitlement.
Best for: Classic aircraft enthusiasts and eligible bonus owners.
Main drawback: Older overall capabilities and restricted availability.
Role: Multirole
The F-4E Phantom II is an iconic older aircraft with a distinctive combat identity.
Although officially classified as multirole, it is not our first recommendation for players trying to maximize performance.
Its biggest appeal comes from enjoying classic aircraft or deliberately challenging yourself.
Best for: Classic aircraft fans and alternative playthroughs.
Main drawback: Advanced aircraft are generally more comfortable for demanding missions.
Role: Electronic Warfare
The EA-6B Prowler is a specialized electronic warfare aircraft.
Its available systems include ECM, ESM, and LAGM.
These options support a different combat approach from ordinary fighters and attackers.
Best for: Electronic warfare and specialist mission setups.
Main drawback: Limited effectiveness as a conventional dogfighter.
The Prowler becomes much more attractive when the mission rewards its particular capabilities.
Role: Attacker
The A-6E Intruder is designed around precise surface attacks and low-altitude strike operations.
It is also a notable progression option because players can obtain it after clearing Mission 14.
That makes it useful for pilots trying to conserve MRP.
Best for: Surface attacks and budget-conscious campaign progression.
Main drawback: Limited air-to-air specialization.
The Intruder is a practical aircraft to keep in your collection even if it is not a leading all-around choice.
Role: Fighter
The MiG-21bis Fishbed is a lightweight classic fighter with impressive maneuvering potential.
Its handling can be demanding, making it particularly interesting for experienced pilots who enjoy older aircraft.
However, its limited versatility and less forgiving nature keep it at the bottom of our overall ranking.
Best for: Classic dogfighting and challenge runs.
Main drawback: Demanding handling and fewer comfortable options for varied missions.
Being ranked last does not mean the MiG-21bis cannot win a fight. A skilled pilot can still make good use of its agility.
The complete tier list is useful for comparing planes, but choosing by combat role is often more practical.
Here are our strongest recommendations for different situations.
The starting F/A-18C is the easiest recommendation for new players.
It does not require an immediate aircraft purchase, and its multirole design lets beginners experience several different types of combat.
Use it to practice missile targeting, speed control, avoiding incoming attacks, and attacking ground targets.
Once you understand which missions you enjoy most, choosing your next aircraft becomes much easier.
The F-22A is our top recommendation for players who want to dominate aerial engagements.
Its maneuverability and weapon options make it attractive against difficult enemy fighters.
However, the Su-57 is a very close alternative, particularly for pilots who enjoy aggressive maneuvering.
The A-10C is an excellent choice when the main objective involves eliminating ground targets.
Its attack-focused weapons are better suited to that purpose than many high-end fighters.
The Su-34 and F-15E are also worth considering when you want a different balance between strike capability and aerial defense.
The F-35C is our preferred aircraft when missions involve several different target types.
Its multirole design and available special weapons help players adapt to changing objectives.
The Rafale M and Su-35S are strong alternatives.
The MiG-31B is worth considering when missions reward speed and long-range interception.
The F-14D Super Tomcat is another good option when its available missile systems suit the targets.
The EA-36 is our leading electronic warfare pick for advanced players.
However, the EA-18G Growler and EA-6B Prowler remain useful alternatives depending on available equipment and mission objectives.
Electronic warfare aircraft become especially interesting when supporting teammates is more important than individual dogfighting.
Ace Combat Online introduces an important distinction that players should understand.
Campaign aircraft progression and Ace Combat Online progression are separate.
Although the modes share a playable aircraft roster, aircraft earned through Campaign Mode do not automatically become unlocked in the online mode.
You must progress through the appropriate online systems to acquire aircraft there.
This matters when deciding which aircraft to pursue.
The F-22A and Su-57 are our preferred starting recommendations for air-focused PvP.
Both offer excellent potential against enemy pilots, but your aircraft alone will not win an engagement.
Good positioning, missile timing, target awareness, and speed management remain essential.
Avoid chasing one opponent so aggressively that another enemy can approach unnoticed.
Co-Op Assault emphasizes defeating computer-controlled enemies while competing for score.
Aircraft that can efficiently handle several target types are especially useful.
The F-35C and Rafale M are strong recommendations because of their versatility.
However, aircraft fitted with suitable air-to-air or ground-attack weapons may perform better depending on the particular mission.
Co-Op Warfare features both player-controlled aircraft and NPC forces across land, sea, and air.
This environment makes flexible aircraft particularly attractive.
The F-35C and F/A-18F are good options for adapting to multiple types of threats.
Dedicated fighters also remain valuable when enemy players become the main concern.
The best online aircraft is the one that helps you complete the current objective, not simply the plane with the highest tier placement.
Even after unlocking several powerful planes, choosing the correct aircraft requires some thought.
A few simple checks can prevent unnecessary mission failures.
Before selecting an aircraft, identify the most important targets.
Are you expected to destroy enemy fighters, attack ships, eliminate ground defenses, or complete several different objectives?
This should influence your decision immediately.
A dedicated fighter is attractive for air superiority missions, while a multirole aircraft is usually more comfortable when targets are mixed.
Special weapons are one of the most important parts of aircraft selection.
For example:
QAAM: Useful for pursuing agile airborne targets when the aircraft supports it.
4AAM and 6AAM: Useful for engaging multiple airborne targets and applying pressure during air combat.
LASM and LACM: Attractive for certain surface or naval objectives, depending on the aircraft and target.
4AGM and 8AGM: Useful when missions present several ground targets that need to be eliminated.
ECM and ESM: Specialized electronic warfare options that support a different approach to combat.
Not every aircraft supports every weapon.
Always inspect the actual loadout options before purchasing equipment or starting a mission.
Some missions may limit aircraft selection or make particular aircraft more suitable than others.
Do not assume that unlocking a powerful plane means you can use it in every situation.
Check the available aircraft and mission requirements before committing to a loadout.
A highly maneuverable aircraft can be excellent for one player and uncomfortable for another.
If you prefer maintaining distance and intercepting targets, a different aircraft may suit you better than one built around aggressive turning battles.
Choose an aircraft that supports how you actually fly, not just how you wish you could fly.
Aircraft progression is one of the biggest reasons players look for a tier list.
MRP, or Military Result Points, is used in Campaign Mode to purchase aircraft, special weapons, and upgrade parts through the Aircraft Tree.
However, you cannot always purchase a plane immediately just because you have enough MRP for its displayed price.
The Aircraft Tree includes prerequisite nodes.
This means the real cost of reaching an advanced aircraft can be considerably higher than the price of the plane itself.
For most beginners, we recommend keeping the F/A-18C until you understand your preferred playstyle.
From there, consider progressing toward the F-35C if you want a long-term multirole aircraft.
This gives you a clear goal instead of spending MRP on unrelated aircraft.
Players who mainly enjoy dogfighting should consider pursuing one of these advanced fighters.
Both are expensive destinations, so inspect the Aircraft Tree carefully.
Look at the aircraft, weapons, and parts required along your chosen branch.
Do not buy unnecessary equipment simply because you have enough currency available.
Sometimes the smartest purchase is not another plane.
A useful special weapon or upgrade part may solve the problem you are experiencing.
If your current aircraft already performs well, consider improving its equipment before replacing it.
Dedicated attackers and electronic warfare aircraft are valuable, but not every player needs them immediately.
If you repeatedly struggle with ground-heavy missions, purchasing an attacker may be worthwhile.
If you prefer conventional air combat, prioritize a fighter.
The goal is to make each MRP purchase useful.
Many players waste resources or make missions harder by choosing aircraft without considering the objective.
These are some of the most common mistakes.
Buying the most expensive plane immediately.
A high price does not guarantee that an aircraft is perfect for every mission. Check its weapons, intended role, and acquisition requirements before spending MRP.
Ignoring the Aircraft Tree.
A plane may require several other purchases before it becomes available. Always inspect its prerequisites and plan the full route.
Using fighters for every ground mission.
Fighters can sometimes handle surface targets, but dedicated attackers or multirole aircraft may be more efficient.
Choosing an aircraft without checking its special weapons.
Different weapon options can dramatically affect how comfortable a mission becomes.
Replacing the starting Hornet too quickly.
The F/A-18C already offers useful flexibility. Spend time learning it before assuming that another aircraft is necessary.
Forgetting about speed management.
Powerful aircraft still require careful flying. Excessive turning and poor positioning can leave you vulnerable.
Assuming online and campaign unlocks are shared.
Ace Combat Online has its own progression. Plan your online aircraft acquisition separately from your campaign purchases.
Treating tier rankings as absolute rules.
A lower-tier aircraft can perform better when its weapons are perfectly suited to the objective.
The F-22A Raptor is our best overall fighter recommendation because of its exceptional air combat potential.
However, the F-35C Lightning II is a stronger recommendation for players who want a flexible multirole aircraft capable of handling different objectives.
The best choice depends on the mission and your preferred flying style.
The F-22A Raptor and Su-57 Felon are our strongest recommendations for demanding dogfights.
The Su-47 Berkut is also an interesting option for experienced pilots who enjoy maneuver-focused combat.
The F/A-18C Hornet is the best starting recommendation because players receive it without purchasing an additional aircraft.
Its balanced combat capabilities make it useful while learning the game's mechanics.
The A-10C Thunderbolt II is our preferred dedicated close air support aircraft.
The Su-34 Fullback, F-15E Strike Eagle, and F-2A are also useful alternatives depending on the target types.
The wider playable roster covered by this guide contains 34 aircraft.
That includes 32 base-game aircraft, the F-14A preorder bonus aircraft, and the ADFX-02 Morgan – PIXY associated with the Premium Ace Pass.
Not every aircraft is available through the same progression method.
The F-22A and Su-57 are strong choices for air-focused PvP.
For mixed-objective multiplayer, the F-35C and Rafale M are excellent alternatives.
Aircraft effectiveness also depends on the online mode, loadout, and pilot skill.
No.
An advanced fighter may be excellent against enemy planes but less efficient against large groups of ground targets.
Choosing the correct aircraft and special weapons for the objective is often more important than buying the most expensive jet.
The playable aircraft roster is shared between the modes, but progression is separate.
Aircraft acquired in Campaign Mode are not automatically unlocked through Ace Combat Online progression.
You must obtain aircraft through the appropriate online systems.
You should not expect to acquire every aircraft during your first campaign.
The Aircraft Tree requires significant MRP investment, and some advanced aircraft are associated with post-campaign progression.
It is more practical to focus on a useful branch and expand your hangar through further play.
For players who want flexibility, the F-35C Lightning II is an excellent long-term goal.
For pilots who mainly enjoy air superiority combat, the F-22A Raptor or Su-57 Felon are strong alternatives.
Choose the branch that matches your preferred gameplay.
The best aircraft in Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is not necessarily the fastest, most expensive, or most advanced-looking fighter.
It is the aircraft that helps you complete your objective efficiently while matching your preferred flying style.
The F-22A Raptor is our top choice for overall fighter performance, while the Su-57 Felon is an outstanding alternative for pilots who enjoy demanding aerial combat.
For players who prefer an aircraft capable of handling different mission types, the F-35C Lightning II is one of the smartest long-term investments.
Meanwhile, the A-10C Thunderbolt II remains an excellent dedicated ground attacker, and aircraft such as the Rafale M, Typhoon, and F/A-18F Super Hornet offer useful alternatives.
Remember that upgrading your equipment, choosing appropriate special weapons, and understanding the mission are just as important as selecting a powerful aircraft.
Whether you are working through the campaign, collecting every plane, or improving your multiplayer performance, building a hangar around your actual goals will make progression much more enjoyable.
For more gaming services and progression support across your favorite games, explore BoostRoom.
Choose the right aircraft, master its weapons, and make every sortie count.
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