During which conflict did the United States first employ jet aircraft in combat operations?

The United States first employed jet aircraft in combat operations during the Korean War. This conflict, which lasted from 1950 to 1953, marked a significant evolution in military aviation, as jet technology had advanced considerably since World War II. The introduction of fighter jets, such as the F-86 Sabre, was pivotal in air combat during the Korean War.

These jets offered superior speed and altitude performance compared to the propeller-driven aircraft predominantly used in earlier conflicts. The Korean War showcased the utility of jet aircraft in both air-to-air combat and ground support missions, establishing a new standard for future military engagements.

In contrast, while jet aircraft were developed and used experimentally towards the end of World War II, it was in the Korean War that they were employed in sustained combat operations, marking a crucial turning point in military aviation history.