The Heinkel He 178 was the world's first jet-powered aircraft, developed by the German company Heinkel in the late 1930s. It made its maiden flight on August 27, 1939, showcasing the potential of jet propulsion in aviation. The aircraft was powered by the HeS 3 turbojet engine, which allowed it to reach speeds of up to 600 km/h (373 mph). Although the He 178 was a prototype and never entered mass production, its successful flight marked a significant milestone in aviation history. The design and technology from the He 178 laid the groundwork for future jet aircraft, influencing the development of military and commercial aviation in the years to come.