Initially caught off guard by the German military build-up, particularly in aviation technology, Britain and the United States, by 1935, were racing against Germany to see who could develop jet engines first. This book provides a comprehensive comparison of the competing programs. The author analyzes each country's perceived needs, efforts, and support. Hans von Ohain completed the first flight-worthy turbojet engine and won the jet race for Germany in August 1939. Nearly two years later, the British placed second when Frank Whittle developed a turbojet engine that powered the Gloster Pioneer.