In South Carolina, a search for a missing F-35 fighter jet resulted in the discovery of scattered debris.
This incident occurred following a “mishap” on Sunday, as confirmed by military officials on Monday night.
The debris was found in Williamsburg County, about a two-hour drive northeast of Joint Base Charleston.
The Marine Corps has taken over command of the situation.
Fortunately, the pilot of the aircraft had safely ejected during the incident, as authorities had previously reported.
Officials emphasized that they couldn’t provide more details at this time to ensure the integrity of the investigative process.
The officials expressed their gratitude to mission partners, as well as local, county, and state authorities, for their dedication and support during the search and as they transition into the recovery phase.
A Marine Corps spokesperson said in a statement on Sunday “We are currently still gathering more information and assessing the situation.
The mishap will be under investigation.”
“We are unable to provide additional details to preserve the integrity of the investigative process,” officials said in the statement on Monday.
“We would like to thank all of our mission partners, as well as local, county, and state authorities, for their dedication and support throughout the search and as we transition to the recovery phase,” the officials said.
Additionally, Earlier Monday, Marine Corps Acting Commandant Eric Smith announced a two-day stand-down focused on safety and procedures.
This stand-down will take place at some point this week for all aviation units, both within and outside the United States, according to a spokesman from ABC News.
Smith expressed his confidence in the aviation units but deemed this action “right and prudent” in light of both this incident and a recent one in Australia.
