F-35 fighter jet crashes at Marine Corps air base in San Diego

An F-35B Lightning II fighter jet crashed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego on July 31, prompting a major emergency response.

The pilot ejected safely and was taken to a medical facility, later reported to be in stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries.

Officials called the incident a mishap and said more information would be released as the investigation continues.

The crash adds to a series of recent F-35 accidents involving the advanced military aircraft, USA Today has reported.

The F-35 program remains one of the Pentagon’s most expensive weapons systems, facing ongoing criticism over high costs, delays, and maintenance challenges.