8802.40.01.15 - Fighters

This HTS category, 8802.40.01.15, specifically classifies new military aircraft, with an unladen weight exceeding 15,000 kg, that are designed for combat roles. This designation is based on the aircraft's primary purpose and inherent capabilities for engaging in aerial warfare, as opposed to transport or other specialized military functions.

Unlike its sibling categories, 8802.40.01.20 (Cargo transports) and 8802.40.01.30 (Other), which cover military aircraft primarily for logistics or a general range of other military applications, this subcategory is exclusively for fighter aircraft. The distinction lies in the operational role: fighters are optimized for air-to-air combat and interception, often featuring advanced avionics, weaponry, and aerodynamic designs for high-speed maneuverability and combat effectiveness.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subdivisions under 8802.40.01.15. Therefore, classification within this category relies on confirming that the aircraft meets the criteria of being a new military airplane or other aircraft exceeding 15,000 kg unladen weight and is unequivocally designed and configured as a fighter. This includes reconnaissance aircraft that can also perform combat missions if their primary design intent leans towards combat capabilities.