Good evening and welcome to today’s top U.S. breaking news.
A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II fighter jet crashed near Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego, California.
The crash occurred on July 31, 2026, during an aviation incident near the military installation.
The Marine pilot successfully ejected from the aircraft before the crash.
Officials said the pilot was recovered and was in stable condition with injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
Emergency crews responded to the crash site as authorities secured the surrounding area.
The F-35B is the Marine Corps version of the F-35 capable of short takeoffs and vertical landings.
The aircraft involved was a sophisticated stealth fighter assigned to a Marine aviation unit.
The crash immediately raised questions about what caused the aircraft to go down.
Military officials have not announced a final cause, and the investigation remains underway.
The incident comes as the F-35 program continues to receive intense attention because of its cost, technology, and strategic importance.
Officials will now examine the aircraft, flight data, maintenance records, and other evidence as part of the investigation.
The safe ejection of the pilot is being viewed as a critical factor in preventing a potentially more serious outcome.
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