How good was the P-80 Shooting Star?

How good was the P-80 Shooting Star, America’s first operational jet fighter? In this episode, we examine the overlooked but historically significant P-80, from its rapid development in 1943 to its operational legacy in Korea and beyond. We compare it against its wartime peers—the Me 262 and Gloster Meteor—and explore its postwar evolution into the T-33 trainer and the F-94 Starfire. Although it missed combat in WWII, the P-80 helped usher the U.S. into the jet age, setting the stage for future American airpower. CONTENTS 00:00 Intro 00:50 Development History 02:59 Comparisons with Me 262 & Meteor 06:52 P-80 to F-80 & F-94 Starfire 08:50 Korea & Shift in Priorities 12:42 Primary Trainer 14:18 Conclusion Support the Channel Join our Members & Merch shop for ad-free early access, exclusive military-themed discounts, and more perks: https://peacemaker.fashion Check out our popular playlist of air campaigns https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PzbGXDV4Wo&list=PLeN4gdAZJa3QRqLqhraC2PJkAoZ1Ged_h _____________ Disclaimer _____________ Some original footage and recreated scenes (using simulators like DCS and War Thunder) may not be 100% accurate to the events depicted. They have been used for illustrative and dramatic purposes where archival footage was unavailable or restricted by copyright. We aim to remain as historically accurate as possible given the available resources. Copyright Notice: This video may contain copyrighted material used under the "fair dealing" provisions (ss 40/103C, ss 41/103A, ss 42/103B) of the Australian Copyright Act for purposes of research, study, criticism, review, and news reporting. All copyrights remain with their respective owners. Our videos are created for educational and historical documentation purposes. About Us: We create documentaries, interviews, and video essays focused on Australian and international military aviation history. Our channel explores the stories of military aircraft, fighter pilots, air battles, and the evolution of air power from WWI to today. Subscribe for new aviation history videos every week.