What does 'generation' mean in fighter jets and does it really matter?

Regional air forces are rapidly modernizing, with China and Pakistan inducting advanced fighters.

India is enhancing its capabilities with Rafales and developing its own fifth-generation AMCA.

The article traces the evolution of fighter jets from early jets to the stealth and networked warfare of fifth-generation aircraft, highlighting the shift towards integrated combat systems and information dominance in modern aerial combat. ...