What other jet fighters were available during the time period of the Me-262?

What other jet fighters were available during the time period of the Me-262? The Messerschmitt Me-262, which was the world’s first operational jet-powered fighter, entered service with Nazi Germany in 1944. During that time period, several other jet fighters were in development or early service. Here are some notable ones:

Gloster Meteor (UK)

The British Gloster Meteor was the Allies’ first operational jet fighter. It entered service in 1944 and saw limited action during the war, primarily intercepting V-1 flying bombs. The Meteor used turbojet engines and had a similar straight-wing design to the Me-262.

Heinkel He 162 (Germany)

Also known as the “Volksjäger” (People’s Fighter), the He 162 was a light jet fighter designed to be produced quickly and cheaply. It was introduced in early 1945, just before the end of the war, and saw only limited combat.

Arado Ar 234 (Germany)

The Arado Ar 234 was primarily a jet-powered bomber and reconnaissance aircraft, but a few were adapted for use as jet fighters. It was introduced in late 1944, and although it wasn’t primarily designed for air combat, it demonstrated Germany’s push to use jet technology across various roles.

Lockheed P-80 Shooting Star (USA)

The P-80 was an American jet fighter that first flew in 1944, but it arrived too late to see combat in World War II. It was one of the first jets developed by the United States and was powered by a single turbojet engine.

Messerschmitt Me 163 Komet (Germany)

Though not a jet, the Me 163 was a rocket-powered interceptor that entered service in 1944. It was an extremely fast aircraft, intended to intercept Allied bombers, but its operational impact was limited by short flight times and high risks associated with the rocket fuel.

These aircraft, along with the Me-262, represented the cutting edge of aviation technology at the end of World War II and helped to shape the future of jet fighter design.