A thorough search is underway as U.S. military officials launch an extensive operation to locate a missing F-35 fighter jet. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon when an unforeseen mishap forced the pilot to safely eject from the aircraft. The fighter jet, identified as a Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II belonging to Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, disappeared following the pilot's ejection.
Search and Rescue Efforts:
Joint Base Charleston, in conjunction with Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, has initiated efforts to recover the missing aircraft. Emergency response teams have been promptly dispatched to aid in this mission. To coordinate the search effectively, authorities have focused their attention north of JB Charleston, specifically around Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion, utilizing the jet's last-known position as a reference point.
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Collaborative Search Operation:
Multiple entities are actively participating in the operation, joining hands to assist in the search for the lost F-35 fighter jet. Navy Region Southeast, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Civil Air Patrol, and various South Carolina authorities are providing crucial support to Joint Base Charleston.
Ongoing Search and Recovery:
Search teams are employing both ground and air assets to maximize their chances of locating the missing U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II. These integrated teams continue to dedicate their efforts to the search while simultaneously preparing for the safe recovery of the jet. The support and cooperation received from mission partners and other organizations involved are greatly appreciated.
Appeal for Public Assistance:
In order to expedite the search operation, the public is kindly requested to cooperate with military and civilian authorities. If anyone possesses any information regarding the whereabouts of the F-35 fighter jet, they are urged to immediately contact the JB Charleston Base Defense Operations Center at 843-963-3600. Every piece of information can prove to be crucial in this endeavor.
Investigation Underway:
Currently, there is no further information available regarding the incident. Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances that led to the pilot's ejection and subsequent loss of the fighter jet. While these investigations are ongoing, continuous efforts are being made to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the situation.
Joint Base Charleston, along with various agencies and authorities, remains fully committed to locating and recovering the missing F-35 fighter jet. The dedicated search teams, both on the ground and in the air, continue their determined efforts in hopes of a successful outcome. The support of the public and the prompt sharing of any relevant information is critical in these crucial search and recovery operations for the F-35 fighter jet.