The Americans employed the F-86 Saber as their main fighter. The F-86 had swept wings for more aerodynamics. The Saber usually fought Russian Mikoyan MIG-15s. The Migs were more heavily armed than the Saber. The Mig had 20mm cannons where as the Saber had six 50 caliber machineguns. The Canadian Armed Forces also bought Sabers which were manufactured under licence by Canadair.

The MIG-15 was a formidable fighter. It was very durable, but the major disadvantage was its exhaust was black.

In this time they still used propeller planes such as the American F8F Bearcat naval fighter, big brother of the F4F Wildcat of World War II Pacific Theater.