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A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II fighter jet crashed Friday at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar near San Diego, California, according to initial reports. The aircraft caught fire upon impact, sending thick plumes of smoke visible for miles around the base. The incident occurred shortly before the plane was scheduled to land, with footage showing the jet crashing just short of the runway. Firefighters from the military base quickly responded, using foam to extinguish the blaze that spread across nearby grassland areas. The crash took place at approximately 9:47 a.m. local time, according to witnesses and emergency responders. Aerial footage captured by local media showed the charred remains of the aircraft, still emitting smoke hours after the incident. The pilot managed to eject safely from the cockpit and was found unharmed shortly afterward, officials confirmed. The pilot has since been identified as a member of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing based at Miramar, though no further details have been released regarding their condition or identity. The F-35B Lightning II is one of the most advanced combat aircraft currently in service, known for its ability to perform conventional takeoffs and landings as well as vertical landings similar to helicopters. It measures over 15 meters in length and is capable of carrying a range of weapons systems. The model is used by the U.S. Marines, the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom, and the Italian Air Force. Each unit costs approximately $102 million, according to the manufacturer, Lockheed Martin. Miramar Air Station, located in southern California, is a major hub for the U.S. Marine Corps' aviation operations. The base houses several squadrons and regularly conducts training exercises involving the F-35B. The crash marks the first recorded incident involving an F-35B at Miramar in recent years, prompting investigations into the cause of the accident. Officials from the Pentagon confirmed the type of aircraft involved but did not provide additional information about the circumstances leading up to the crash. Eyewitness accounts described the moment of impact as extremely loud, with a visible explosion followed by a rapid spread of flames. Helicopter footage showed the aircraft hitting the ground at high speed, leaving a crater in the runway area. Emergency services arrived within minutes, working to contain the fire and secure the site. The surrounding area was temporarily closed off while authorities conducted a thorough inspection of the wreckage. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Department of Defense are expected to launch an investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings will focus on flight data recorders, maintenance logs, and weather conditions at the time of the crash. Investigators will also interview the pilot and review communications between the aircrew and control tower prior to the incident. The results of these inquiries could lead to changes in operational procedures or safety protocols for the F-35B fleet. The crash has raised concerns among defense analysts and military personnel about the reliability of fifth-generation fighter jets under various operating conditions. While the F-35 program has faced scrutiny over cost overruns and technical challenges, this incident adds another layer of complexity to ongoing debates about the aircraft’s performance. The U.S. Marine Corps has not commented publicly on the crash, but internal reviews are likely underway to assess any potential weaknesses in training or equipment. As of late Saturday, the wreckage remained at the site, with investigators continuing to examine the damaged aircraft. The pilot has been cleared for duty, according to military sources, though they are undergoing medical evaluations. The exact sequence of events leading to the crash remains unclear, with no official explanation yet provided.