Footage shared on social media showed flames erupting at the crash site and thick smoke billowing into the sky. The aircraft, identified as an upgraded model of the F-35, was delivered by Lockheed Martin and was en route to Edwards Air Force Base in southern California when the crash occurred, according to two US Department of Defense officials who spoke to CBS News.

The F-35 fighter jet program, initiated in 2006, is developed by Lockheed Martin for the US military. The program includes three versions of the aircraft: F-35A, F-35B, and F-35C, each costing over $100 million. The goal is to integrate these jets into both Air Force and Navy operations.

Despite facing significant criticism, the United States continues to heavily invest in the F-35 program, making it the most expensive arms initiative in the world. The aircraft has been plagued by numerous technical issues, including problems with troubleshooting, device connections, wiring, piping, and fiber optics, as well as defects in the memory unit and refueling door, as reported by Air and Space Forces magazine.

The F-35 has experienced multiple incidents due to malfunctions and technical problems. These include fires, crashes, sinkings, decommissionings, and emergency landings, both in the United States and in other countries that have purchased the jets from Washington, often suffering significant financial losses without deploying the aircraft in combat.

The continued investment and support for the F-35 program persist despite these challenges, as the US military aims to maintain its advanced capabilities and integration of modern fighter jets into its operations. The recent crash in Albuquerque highlights ongoing concerns about the safety and reliability of the F-35 aircraft. (ILKHA)