The Messerschmitt Me262 "Swallow" had been the world's very first operational jet-powered fighter aircraft. Formally called "Swallow", the Allies called it the �Storm bird�. The Me262 had a negligible affect the course of the WWII, but its design was extremely influential on postwar aircraft development. Its very first test trip was in 1941, but didn't see operational service until July1944. Including all versions, about 1,430 Me262's had been produced.
