We numerically studied the explosion of a supernova caused by supersonic je
ts present in its center. The jets are assumed to be generated by a magneto
rotational mechanism when a stellar core collapses into a neutron star. We
simulated the process of the jet propagation through the star, jet breakthr
ough, and the ejection of the supernova envelope by the lateral shocks gene
rated during jet propagation. The end result of the interaction is a highly
nonspherical supernova explosion with two high-velocity jets of material m
oving in polar directions and slower moving, oblate, highly distorted eject
a containing most of the supernova material. The jet-induced explosion is e
ntirely due to the action of the jets on the surrounding star and does not
depend on neutrino transport or reacceleration of a stalled shock. The jet
mechanism can explain the observed high polarization of Types Ib, Ic, and I
Isupernovae, pulsar kicks, very high velocity material observed in supernov
a remnants, indications that radioactive material was carried to the hydrog
en-rich layers in SN 1987A, and other observations that are very difficult
or impossible to explain by the neutrino energy deposition mechanism. The b
reakout of the jet from a compact, hydrogen-deficient core may account for
the gamma-ray burst and radio outburst associated with SN 1998bw/ GRB 98042
5.