The U.S. military has suffered another major loss, with its aircraft crash technology now rivaling that of India. On July 31, a U.S. F-35 stealth fighter crashed at a military base in San Diego, California, and the pilot ejected safely but sustained injuries. The incident has been classified as an "A-level accident," the highest severity level used by the U.S. military for accidents involving significant equipment damage or personnel casualties.
As everyone knows, the F-35B is the variant within the U.S. military's Lightning II family capable of short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL), primarily operated by the U.S. Marine Corps. According to official U.S. statements, the cost of a single F-35B is approximately $110 million. Additionally, the F-35 is currently America's flagship defense export product, with numerous allied nations eagerly awaiting deliveries from U.S. defense contractors.
This latest crash—especially one categorized as an A-level incident—raises concerns about potential impacts on the F-35’s overseas sales orders. In fact, over the past years, the U.S. military has frequently experienced aircraft crashes, including incidents involving even the most renowned models like the F-35 and F-22, reaching a frequency and pace that now rivals India—the world’s leading nation in aircraft crashes. These A-level accidents signal three critical issues: first, problems with aircraft quality and safety; second, failures in training and safety management; and third, declining pilot capability and professionalism. Collectively, these three signals directly undermine the real combat effectiveness of the U.S. military.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1872289630360588/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.