The Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star was the first jet fighter used by the United States Air Force. Introduced in the late 1940s, it played a significant role during the Korean War as a versatile aircraft for air-to-air combat and ground support missions. Powered by a turbojet engine, the F-80 had a top speed of around 600 miles per hour. Its design featured a sleek fuselage and straight wings, which contributed to its performance and stability in flight. The F-80 was eventually retired in the 1950s, paving the way for more advanced jet fighters.