Lockheed XP-80 prototype, 44-83020, at Muroc AAF, 8 January 1944. (U.S. Air Force)
The Lockheed XP-80 made its first flight on Jan. 8, 1944. In 1948, the Air Force changed the “P” designation (Pursuit) to “F” (Fighter). The P-80 Shooting Star was the first operational jet fighter, and as the F-80 saw combat in the Korean War. (Courtesy photo)