Once the limited initial range was improved, the Hawker Hunter became a versatile combat aircraft as a day fighter, fighter ground attack and fighter reconnaissance platform. In addition to worldwide service with the RAF, the Hunter was an export success, becoming a standard fighter with NATO and air forces in the Middle East, India, Asia, Africa and South America. Its modular construction made it easy to build and it was ideal for refurbishing and updating earlier models for sale to overseas customers.

Hunters are still active for contract work as a low-cost platform for aggressor training and systems development.