The Heinkel He 162 was a German jet fighter developed during World War II. It was designed to be a lightweight and fast aircraft, primarily to defend against Allied bombers. The He 162 featured a unique design with a forward-swept wing and a single turbojet engine, allowing for high speeds and agility in combat. First flown in December 1944, the He 162 entered service in early 1945. Despite its innovative design, production was limited due to the war's end and resource shortages. The aircraft represented a significant step in jet technology, influencing future fighter designs in the post-war era.