Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska – An F-35 Lightning II fighter jet crashed during a training exercise near Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska, causing significant damage to the aircraft. The pilot successfully ejected and was taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation, according to military officials.
The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon as the jet was preparing to land. Initial reports indicate that the aircraft experienced technical difficulties, forcing the pilot to eject moments before impact. CNN reported that emergency crews responded swiftly to secure the crash site and assess potential hazards.
USA Today stated that the pilot was conscious and alert upon rescue, and Air Force officials confirmed that no civilian injuries or property damage occurred. While the cause of the crash remains under investigation, officials have not ruled out mechanical failure or adverse weather conditions, both of which have been known to affect military aircraft operations in Alaska.
NBC News confirmed that the jet suffered catastrophic damage, marking the latest in a series of F-35 incidents in recent years. The stealth fighter, one of the most advanced aircraft in the world, has been subject to multiple safety reviews due to past mechanical issues and software malfunctions.
Fox News reported that military officials have grounded some F-35 operations as a precautionary measure while investigations continue. The Air Force has not disclosed whether this specific jet was experiencing known technical issues before the crash.
According to AP News, the Department of Defense will conduct a full review to determine what led to the incident and whether broader safety measures need to be implemented for the F-35 fleet.
As officials investigate the cause, the crash raises renewed concerns over the long-term reliability of the costly F-35 program, which has faced budget overruns and technical challenges since its inception.
