The Lavochkin La-168 first flew on April 22, 1948. (The American F-86 Sabre had first flown in October 1947)

It was designed to use the new turbojet based on the Rolls-Royce Nene in response to a 1946 request for an advanced swept-wing jet fighter capable of transonic performance.

The engine was placed behind the pilot, but with a high-mounted wing and T-tail compared to the similar Mig-15.