What technological advancement characterized the first generation of jet fighters?

The first generation of jet fighters is primarily characterized by the use of guns and cannons as their main armament. During this early stage of jet fighter development, which emerged in the late 1940s and continued into the early 1950s, the technology focused on achieving speed and agility in the air rather than integrating advanced weaponry systems. The aircraft were designed for dogfighting, where close-range engagements required accurate and rapid fire capabilities, provided by machine guns and cannons mounted on the aircraft.

This reliance on guns and cannons reflects the strategic and tactical needs of air combat at that time, as technology had not yet progressed to incorporate advanced targeting systems or missile technology effectively. Guided missiles and other more sophisticated weaponry became more prevalent in later generations of jet fighters, as technology evolved and the nature of aerial warfare changed. Similarly, stealth technology and vertical takeoff capabilities are features that emerged much later, as military aviation continued to advance, focusing on evasion of radar and increased versatility in operations.