A serious accident occurred tonight at and near the Naval Air Station Lemoore (NAS Lemoore) in California — one of the F-35C Lightning II fighter jets crashed. The plane crashed somewhere near the base, prompting a strong response from the emergency services, who immediately arrived at the scene.
NAS Lemoore is not just another airbase. This is the main strike base of the US Navy on the West coast, from where both the latest F-35C and the proven F/A-18E/F Super Hornet will launch. Combat and training squadrons are based here, and each sortie is a preparation for real operations, including from aircraft carriers.
Fortunately, according to preliminary data, the pilot managed to eject and survived. He was immediately evacuated for a medical check—up - details about his condition have not yet been disclosed. An investigation into the causes of the accident has already begun: data from on-board systems, weather conditions and possible technical failures are being analyzed.
The F-35C is a marine version of the fifth—generation fighter adapted for landing on aircraft carriers. It is equipped with a reinforced chassis, arresting hook and other features, but it remains difficult to control. Any accident involving such an aircraft is a serious event, especially given their high cost and strategic importance.
The incident has not yet affected the fleet's combat readiness, but it has raised concerns: no matter how much technology is improved, flying fighter jets still involves huge risks.
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