A US Navy F-35 fighter jet crashed near Naval Air Station Lemoore in central California, officials confirmed. The pilot ejected safely and no other injuries were reported. The cause of the crash is under investigation by the Navy.
California: An F-35 fighter jet crashed near Naval Air Station (NAS) Lemoore in central California, the US Navy confirmed on Wednesday.
The incident occurred around 6:30 pm near NAS Lemoore, located about 40 miles southwest of Fresno.
According to a statement issued by NAS Lemoore, the pilot managed to eject safely and is reported to be in stable condition. “The pilot successfully ejected and is safe. There are no additional affected personnel,” the statement read.
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Aircraft Assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron VF-125
The aircraft was assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron VF-125, also known as the “Rough Raiders, ”the Navy added. VF-125 serves as a Fleet Replacement Squadron, responsible for training pilots and aircrew to operate the F-35.
Naval Air Station Lemoore is the US Navy’s primary base for strike fighter aircraft operations on the West Coast and plays a key role in preparing aviators for combat readiness.
Cause of the Crash Under Investigation by US Navy
The Navy has not released further details about the incident, and the cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the F-35 fighter jet, did not immediately respond to requests for comment outside of regular business hours.
Officials assured that more information would be shared as the investigation progresses.
