Which aircraft was the Air Force's first operational jet fighter?

The Lockheed P-80 Shooting Star holds the distinction of being the Air Force's first operational jet fighter. This aircraft was introduced during the late stages of World War II and became fully operational in the post-war period, specifically in 1945. The P-80 was designed to provide a faster, more efficient response to the threats posed by enemy aircraft, as it was powered by a turbojet engine, enabling higher speeds and better performance than its piston-engine predecessors.

The importance of the P-80 extends beyond its initial operational status; it paved the way for the jet age in military aviation and contributed significantly to advancements in air combat capabilities. This aircraft influenced subsequent jet fighter designs and helped establish the United States as a leader in jet technology during the early Cold War era. Thus, it is recognized as a landmark achievement in the evolution of air superiority fighters.