California [US], July 31 (ANI): A US Navy F-35C fighter jet crashed near Naval Air Station Lemoore in central California on Wednesday evening, according to a statement released by the Navy, CNN reported. The crash occurred around 6:30 PM local time, and the pilot ejected safely. The incident is currently under investigation.
Video footage from CNN affiliate KFSN showed thick black smoke and flames rising from the crash site, which was located in flat, open farmland about 40 miles southwest of Fresno. Local emergency services were quick to respond. A Fresno County Sheriff’s Office statement confirmed that EMS crews were at the scene assisting the pilot, and Cal Fire personnel were also deployed.
The F-35C aircraft was assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron VF-125, nicknamed the “Rough Raiders.” This unit serves as a Fleet Replacement Squadron, tasked with training Navy pilots and aircrew for operations involving the carrier-capable variant of the F-35 Lightning II.
The F-35C is one of three variants of the fifth-generation fighter jet developed by Lockheed Martin. The F-35A is operated by the US Air Force, while the F-35B—capable of short takeoffs and vertical landings—is used by the US Marine Corps. The aircraft involved in the crash is estimated to cost around USD 100 million.
This incident marks the second F-35 crash in 2025. In January, an F-35A assigned to the Air Force crashed during a training mission at Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska. That pilot also ejected safely.
The F-35 is considered one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world, renowned for its stealth, agility, and combat capabilities. More than 17 countries participate in the F-35 program. Despite its technological superiority, the aircraft has drawn criticism over persistent maintenance issues and high operational costs, raising questions about its long-term readiness.
An official investigation into Wednesday’s crash is ongoing. (ANI)
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