Which early jet fighter had the greatest development potential?

This is a question which I have wondered for years.

The first operational jet fighters for their respective nations were the Me 262, Meteor and Shooting Star. Because of the result of WWII, the development potential of the 262 was effectively terminated, whilst the other two went on to be developed considerably over a number of years and versions.

But what if the 262 had been an allied aircraft and had been developed over the same time as the other two?

Which one would have been the most advanced and most effective, say 5 – 6 years later?

In my opinion, the 262 had the most advanced aerodynamics and would have possessed the greatest development potential of the three. It was principally hindered by the haste with which it was manufactured, combined with sub-standard metals and lack of fuel. It could also have undergone development in keeping with the developments in aerodynamics under way in Germany during the latter stages of the war and could have been adopted to more fully swept wings etc.

So, what do other members think?

Regards

Wombat:confused: