Star Wars is not all about lightsabers and the Force—some of the most action-packed moments occur at breakneck velocities in the cockpit. Daring trench runs and hyper-aggressive hyperspace jumps to save the day, the saga has provided unforgettable battles in space with a superior armada of starfighters. Across the decades, certain ships have become iconic alongside the pilots who command them. Let’s take a closer inspection of 7 of the most iconic Star Wars starfighters—listed from the all-time greats to those that, quite simply, are lucky to survive a skirmish in one piece.
1. X-Wing
There’s a reason why the X-Wing is in the number one position. Trusty, adaptable, and lethal in combat, the X-Wing became the mainstay of the Rebel Alliance. With its iconic S-foils, symmetrical design, and heavy firepower, it equipped pilots with all they required to take on the Empire. And who could forget its greatest claim to fame—Luke Skywalker flying one to destroy the initial Death Star. When it comes to establishing the Star Wars dogfight, the X-Wing is unbeatable.
2. TIE Defender
A highly unusual but powerful vessel, the TIE Defender was the Empire’s top response to the X-Wing. Constructed under the supervision of Grand Admiral Thrawn, this cutting-edge fighter featured shields, heavy armor, and even a hyperdrive—bargains unheard of in most Imperial starfighters.
It was fast, strong, and resistant to damage, and it was a favorite among the Empire’s best pilots. If the Defender had been manufactured en masse, the Rebellion could have had a greatly altered destiny.
3. ARC-170
Before the Empire, the Republic depended on the ARC-170, a heavy starfighter designed to perform long-range missions for the Clone Wars. Accommodating a pilot, two gunners, and one astromech droid, this harsh ship was crafted to serve as much for reconnaissance as it was for combat. Its massive firepower and resilience proved to be a clone trooper’s savior—and a direct ancestor of the X-Wing.
4. Millennium Falcon
Yes, technically a Corellian freighter—not a starfighter—and officially so—but the Millennium Falcon has seen more combat than most loyal warships. Thanks to Han Solo, Chewbacca, and far-reaching modifications, this “bucket of bolts” has survived TIE fighters, outrun Star Destroyers, and helped destroy both Death Stars. Its unmatched speed, surprise firepower, and legendary past make the Falcon a surefire entry on any list of iconic Star Wars ships.
5. A-Wing
If speed is your thing, the A-Wing is the starfighter for you. Light, fast, and agile, it was the fastest ship in the Rebel arsenal. But that blistering speed came at a cost—it was lightly armored, hard to repair, and required expert pilots to master. In skilled hands, though, the A-Wing could dominate the skies, making it a deadly addition to any squadron.
6. TIE/In Fighter (Stock TIE Fighter)
Few vessels are as audiovisually iconic as the base TIE fighter. Equipped with twin ion engines and its distinctive screech, it was the standard starfighter of the Empire. Mass-produced and agile, the TIE/In was missing shields, armor, and hyperdrives, leaving pilots exquisitely expendable. Although not the strongest performer, it’s an unrecognizable symbol of Imperial power.
7. Vulture Droid
Utilized by the Separatists during the Clone Wars, the Vulture Droid was an AI-operated fighter that was capable of acting as a ground-advancing walking unit. Fast and maneuverable, it was a terror when deployed in masses. But because it depended on AI, it was not very adaptable or delicate, making it an easy target for Jedi pilots and veteran clone troopers. Useful in mass, but one-of-one, it was forgettable.
Star Wars starfighters are more than simply spacecraft—they’re a fundamental aspect of the saga’s mythology. They all mean something, whether they represent rebellion, oppression, or freedom on a personal level. From the reliable X-Wing to the sinister TIE Interceptor, these vessels have forged their legends among the stars.