Who was the first to design an aircraft with a swept wing?

The correct choice is Hermann Oberth. He is often recognized for his pioneering work in rocketry and astronautics, and he made significant contributions to the fields of aerospace engineering. Oberth's design of a swept-wing aircraft was innovative because swept wings offer aerodynamic advantages, particularly at higher speeds. The design helps delay airflow separation over the wing, thus reducing drag and improving stability during flight. This concept has become fundamental in the design of modern aircraft, particularly those intended for high-speed travel.

While Hans von Ohain is known for co-developing one of the first turbojet engines, Igor Sikorsky is celebrated for his contributions to helicopter design, and Chuck Yeager gained fame as a test pilot who broke the sound barrier, none of them are credited with the initial design of the swept wing. Thus, Hermann Oberth holds the distinction for being the first designer to conceptualize this crucial advancement in aviation technology.