The U.S. military is currently on the lookout for a missing F-35 fighter jet, which disappeared after a “mishap” over the weekend. What is even more astonishing is that the aircraft may still be flying, unmanned.
Key Takeaway
An F-35 fighter jet is missing after a “mishap” in South Carolina. The pilot has ejected safely, but the jet’s whereabouts are unknown. There is speculation that the F-35 may still be flying unmanned. The search is focused around Lake Moultrie/Lake Marion, with assistance from the FAA. If anyone has information, they are urged to call 843-963-3600.
Officials from South Carolina’s Joint Base Charleston have reported the elite F-35 as missing, issuing a public statement on Sunday. The pilot had ejected during a training exercise, and the whereabouts of the stealth jet remain unknown.
In a tweet shared by the base, they stated, “We’re working with @MCASBeaufortSC to locate an F-35 that was involved in a mishap this afternoon. The pilot ejected safely. If you have any information that may help our recovery teams locate the F-35, please call the Base Defense Operations Center.”
The exact details leading to the pilot’s ejection have not been disclosed. However, it has been revealed that the F-35 was in autopilot mode at the time the pilot bailed out.
Interestingly, the Air Force is avoiding the use of the term “crash” to describe the situation surrounding the missing jet. While one might assume the aircraft has crashed, officials are being cautious with their language and have not confirmed whether they suspect it is still airborne.
Speculation has arisen, suggesting the possibility of the F-35 continuing its flight like a zombie aircraft. The Air Force has focused its search around Lake Moultrie/Lake Marion, taking into account the aircraft’s last-known position. They are also collaborating with the FAA to aid in pinpointing its location.
If anyone spots the F-35, they are encouraged to call 843-963-3600. Let’s hope this missing aircraft is recovered promptly and without incident.
