The U.S. military is searching for a missing fighter jet. The aircraft disappeared above the state of South Carolina after a pilot ejected using their ejection seat, reports the U.S. newspaper USA Today.
The combat aircraft, an F-35B Lightning II, also known as the JSF, took off from a U.S. Marine Corps base in Beaufort, in the southern part of the state. The aircraft, which costs approximately 75 million, was part of a training mission.
After the pilot used the ejection seat, they parachuted down to North Charleston, about 115 kilometers northeast of the airbase. The pilot has been taken to the hospital, and according to the defense officials, their condition is stable. The pilot’s identity has not been disclosed.
Efforts are underway to locate the F-35 near two lakes, which is the last known location of the aircraft. A helicopter is also being used in the search. Military base officials have requested public assistance through X.
