The US 57th Wing, stationed at Nellis Air Force Base, announced on 31/3 that one of its F-35 fighter jets crashed that day in the Nevada Test and Training Range, north of Las Vegas.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene to assist the pilot, who sustained minor injuries after ejecting. The 57th Wing stated the incident did not affect nearby residential areas but did not specify the cause of the F-35 crash.
KSNV News 3 in Las Vegas, citing sources, reported that the pilot ejected after the F-35 experienced a malfunction during a training flight on the afternoon of 31/3.
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An F-35 fighter jet at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, US in 11/2025. Photo: USAF
F-35 aircraft are a primary asset at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada, used for weapon testing, tactical development, and simulating adversary aircraft. F-35s from other locations frequently visit the base for exercises and training.
The F-35 is one of the world's most modern fighter jets and a core weapon system for the US military. Lockheed Martin reported in January that 12 countries operate F-35 fighter jets, with nearly 1,300 aircraft in their inventories.
Despite its advanced capabilities, this aircraft series has faced numerous issues with maintenance and combat readiness in recent years.
Central Command (CENTCOM), the unit responsible for US military operations in the Middle East, announced on 19/3 that an F-35A fighter jet made an emergency landing at a regional base after a combat mission over Iran.
CENTCOM stated the aircraft landed safely and the pilot was "in stable condition", seemingly indicating the pilot sustained injuries.
An aircraft suspected to be an F-35 fighter jet hit by a missile over Iran on the night of 19/3. Video: IRGC
CNN, citing two sources familiar with the matter, reported that the F-35A "was hit by suspected Iranian fire". The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also released a video showing a missile striking an aircraft resembling an F-35.
In 7/2025, an F-35C fighter jet intensely caught fire when it crashed near a base in California, with the pilot ejecting safely.
Pham Giang (According to War Zone)
