Federal agency to probe missing F-35 fighter jet, says spokesperson.
Absence of F-35 Stealth Fighter Jet Sparks Investigation by US Department of Defense
A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Defense has announced that they will be launching an investigation into the disappearance of an F-35 stealth fighter jet in South Carolina. The incident led to an extensive search for the aircraft, with its debris finally being located on Monday night.
During an interview with an MSNBC anchor, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby was asked about the circumstances surrounding the plane’s disappearance. Kirby responded by stating that a thorough investigation would be conducted to determine what happened.
“Rest assured, the Pentagon will leave no stone unturned in their efforts to uncover the truth behind this aviation mishap,” Kirby added. He emphasized that the Defense Department would be transparent once the investigation is complete, examining their own search and recovery efforts to ensure they were carried out appropriately.
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The missing fighter jet, valued at approximately $80 million, vanished after the pilot ejected near a joint base in South Carolina. The Joint Base Charleston sought assistance from the public in locating the stealth aircraft.
Authorities discovered debris from the crash about two hours north of the pilot’s ejection point. The reasons behind the pilot’s decision to eject and the delay in locating the F-35 remain unclear.
Cpl. Christian Cortez, a Marine with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, stated that the circumstances leading to the pilot’s ejection were currently under investigation.
The aircraft was ultimately found in a rural area of Williamsburg County, prompting officials to request that residents avoid the crash site while a military team secured it.
“We are transferring incident command to the USMC this evening, as they begin the recovery process,” the joint base announced on social media.
The U.S. Marine Corps also released a statement on Monday, confirming that the incident was under investigation and that additional details could not be provided at this time.
Jeremy Huggins, a spokesperson at Joint Base Charleston, revealed that the F-35 was on autopilot when the pilot ejected. Officials suspect that the plane may have remained airborne after the incident.
As a result of the ongoing search, the Marine Corps has ordered a standdown of its jets, temporarily grounding all pilots until further notice. This decision comes in light of multiple recent “aviation mishaps” that have occurred within the Marine Corps.
Following these incidents, acting commandant Gen. Eric Smith directed all Marine Corps units to review their safety procedures.
The disappearance of the F-35 has drawn criticism from lawmakers, who question how such a valuable aircraft could be lost.
“How in the hell do you lose an F-35?” wrote Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) on X. She expressed her concerns about the lack of a tracking device and the reliance on the public to locate the jet.
In response, the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing spokesperson stated that additional details could not be provided to maintain the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
According to Air and Space Forces Magazine, each F-35 unit carries an average cost of $75 million.
The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) reported in 2021 that the F-35 program is the Department of Defense’s most expensive weapon system, with an estimated cost of $1.7 trillion for the aircraft and its systems.
“This program is currently considering options to upgrade its engine and cooling system. However, it has not fully assessed the costs and technical risks associated with these options,” stated the GAO report. The report also highlighted the need for better management of upgrades to provide greater transparency to Congress regarding potential cost increases.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
What are the possible causes of the F-35 stealth fighter jet disappearance in Washington, DC on September 19, 2023?
Washington, DC, on September 19, 2023. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
The F-35 stealth fighter jet, produced by Lockheed Martin, is one of the United States’ most advanced military aircraft. Its disappearance has raised concerns within the Department of Defense regarding the security and safety of such a sophisticated weapon system.
Experts speculate on various possible causes for the incident, ranging from technical malfunctions to human error. However, until the investigation is complete, no conclusions can be drawn. The team responsible for the investigation will analyze all available data, including flight records, maintenance records, and eyewitness accounts, to establish a comprehensive picture of the events leading up to the crash.
The investigation will also assess the response efforts of the U.S. military and the joint base to determine if any improvements can be made to prevent similar incidents in the future. Transparency and accountability will be key as the Department of Defense releases the findings to the public. It is essential to address any shortcomings in the search and recovery operations promptly and take appropriate measures to prevent them from recurring.
The disappearance of an F-35 stealth fighter jet highlights the need for strict security protocols and vigilance in safeguarding advanced military technology. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial to identify any potential vulnerabilities in the system and implement necessary measures to enhance security.
The incident also serves as a reminder of the significant financial investment associated with the development and production of advanced military assets. Losing an aircraft valued at $80 million is not only a blow to the Department of Defense but also a loss to the taxpayers. Efforts should be made to minimize the occurrence of such incidents to protect the nation’s resources.
The U.S. Department of Defense, along with other relevant agencies and stakeholders, must now focus on determining the cause of the F-35’s disappearance and taking corrective actions to prevent any future mishaps. The safety and effectiveness of the U.S. military rely on maintaining a thorough understanding of how advanced weapon systems are operated and safeguarded.
As investigations continue and more information becomes available, it is crucial for the Department of Defense to remain transparent and communicate openly with the public. Regular updates should be provided to assure the American people that every effort is being made to uncover the truth behind this incident and to address any concerns regarding the security of advanced military technology.
The disappearance of the F-35 stealth fighter jet is a significant event that demands a thorough examination. It serves as a stark reminder of the challenges involved in maintaining the security and integrity of sophisticated military equipment. The results of the investigation will not only shed light on the circumstances surrounding this incident but will also inform future efforts to enhance the safety and reliability of advanced military assets.
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