Do we really need fighter jets anymore?

😮

Now calm down. Don’t let the title make you cringe. :diablo: Let me explain…

There are a lot of airforces in the world with only a basic equipment fit. A few dozen Mig-21s, a coupla choppers, and a rusty C-130 in most cases. Some are attempting to upgrade to newer models, but I was wondering: The latest models of Russian SAMs (S-400 series I think it’s called) are said to be a whole new level of deadly. And now with the advent of Stealth aircraft, it adds a whole new dimension to air warfare. And from what I understand, it’s a whole hell of a lot cheaper to buy and maintain a mobile SAM network than it is to buy, train, maintain, fuel, and keep a fully functioning air force to defend your airspace.

For a lot of the smaller third-world nations, wouldn’t it make a lot more sense just to invest in the latest SAM designs than to try to plog along on some third-hand aircraft while saving money? Could we see the end of air combat forces in the lesser nations around the globe in place of SAM networks? (Of course, if you want to INVADE another nation, that’s a whole ‘nother ballgame right there…) The concept of fighter aircraft would be relegated to only the wealthiest, most influential nations?

What advantages do Fighters have over SAMs when it comes to defending a sovereign airspace, especially today with the new SAMs and Stealth?