If you crash your car, you'll probably be set back a few thousand dollars. But this F-35 fighter Jet racks up $81 million as it plummets to the ground in a fiery wreck at Eielson Air Force Base.
The footage released online doesn't show the training routine the doomed fighter jet is going through before it comes crashing down. But the video shows the pilot already under canopy as the fighter jet falls to the ground.
As the pilot floats safely to Earth, the jet can be seen to spin and turn as it descends. However, as soon as it hits the ground, the fireball rockets into the sky. The crash would have been fatal if the pilot hadn't managed to safely eject.
According to the report by the 354th Fighter Wing, the pilot was still transported to the hospital for observation. Continuing, they informed outlets that the jet experienced an "inflight malfunction" that led to the crash at Eison Air Force Base.
Colonel Promises To Look Into The F-35 Fighter Jet Explosion
Pieces of military equipment costing $81 million shouldn't be experiencing inflight malfunctions at any point. Col. Paul Townsend has promised to inquire as to how this kind of this was allowed to happen.
"Our people are our most important resource, and we are committed in ensuring their safety and security. I can assure you the United States Air Force will conduct a thorough investigation in hopes to minimize the chances of such occurrences from happening again," he said in a statement
The F-35 fighter jet that crashed into the Eielson Air Force Base was produced and sold by Lockheed Martin. As of late, they have been under fire, ahem, for producing low-quality equipment. This particular aircraft originally cost $135.8 million before a deal was made to lower the cost.
Despite the outrageous price of the fighter jet, there have been observations of a drop in manufacturing quality. It is mistakes and cut corners that result in a fighter plane crashing down to earth like this. Thankfully, the pilot ejected in time, but the next time they might not be so lucky.
