F-35 Fighter Jet Flies for 60 Miles Without Pilot Before Crashing

An F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter jet, described as one of the “most expensive” aircraft, went missing in South Carolina and flew unmanned for approximately 60 miles before crashing into a wooded area. The pilot ejected safely and landed in a residential backyard.

The incident has raised numerous questions, and an ongoing investigation is underway, with the U.S. Marine Corps leading the inquiry. The mishap has been classified as a “Class-A mishap,” indicating damages exceeding $2.5 million, the destruction of a Department of Defense aircraft, or injury or death of personnel.

U.S. Representative Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) expressed her astonishment on social media, asking how such a high-value aircraft could go missing without a tracking device, and why the public is being urged to assist in its recovery.

The 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing of the Marine Corps has not provided immediate comment on the situation.

What is an F-35? The F-35B Lightning II, developed by Lockheed Martin, is acclaimed as the most lethal and survivable aircraft globally. It possesses the capability for short takeoffs and is operated by the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.K., and the Italian Air Force. Lockheed Martin had struck a $4 billion deal with the Pentagon in 2014 to introduce a new fleet of F-35s and reduce overall costs.

How did the F-35 go missing? Details regarding the circumstances leading to the jet’s disappearance are yet to be disclosed. The aircraft took off from the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort in South Carolina and, according to reports, was on autopilot when the pilot ejected.

Was the missing F-35 located? Yes, the military has located debris from the F-35 in the vicinity of Indiantown, South Carolina. Airmen from Joint Base Charleston have been in communication with local residents about the recovery operation.

Where is the F-35 debris field? The debris from the F-35 has been found in Williamsburg County, South Carolina. Residents have been advised to avoid the area as a recovery team secures the site.

Why did the F-35 pilot eject? The exact cause prompting the pilot to eject remains under investigation, as stated by 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Cpl. Christian Cortez.

What’s next? During the two-day stand-down ordered by acting Commandant Gen. Eric Smith, aviation commanders will review flight practices, procedures, and policies within the Department of Defense. This measure aims to ensure the Marine Corps maintains combat-ready aircraft with well-prepared pilots and crews.