The Lockheed P-80 Shooting Star was the first jet fighter used by the United States Air Force. Developed during World War II, it made its first flight in 1944 and was designed for high-speed performance and agility. The P-80 featured a sleek, streamlined design and was powered by a General Electric J33 turbojet engine. The P-80 served primarily during the early years of the Korean War, where it was used for air superiority and ground attack missions. Although it was eventually replaced by more advanced jets, the Shooting Star played a crucial role in the transition from propeller-driven aircraft to jet technology in military aviation.