A fifth-generation F-35B fighter jet of the U.S. Marine Corps crashed at MCAS Miramar air base in San Diego, California. The pilot managed to eject and was hospitalized in stable condition, Fox News reports, writes UNN.
Details
According to the U.S. Marine Corps, the accident occurred around 10:00 local time on the air base runway. After the aircraft fell, a fire broke out, engulfing the surrounding area.
The Marine Corps press service reported that the pilot successfully ejected. He was taken to a medical facility for examination and treatment of injuries that are not life-threatening.
The cause of the accident is being determined
The cause of the crash remains unknown for now. Military officials did not specify whether the aircraft was on a training flight, taking off, or landing.
Video from the scene shows the fighter broke into two parts, and the fire engulfed an area approximately the size of a football field. The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department was called in to extinguish the blaze, although the operation is being led by the military.
Reference
The F-35B is a modification of the F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter with short takeoff and vertical landing capability. It is used by the U.S. Marine Corps for combat, reconnaissance, and strike missions. The circumstances of the accident are being investigated by military specialists.
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