During an exercise in Arizona, an evasive plane was hit by self-fire • The aircraft managed to land safely and the pilot was not injured • The damage is estimated at at least $ 2.5 million
F-35 aircraft
Photo:
Reuters
A U.S. Navy F-35B was severely damaged after a cannon shot fired, causing an unknown cause of explosion and major damage to the fuselage.
The incident occurred on March 12, when the plane participated in an exercise in Arizona.
During the exercise, the cannon exploded, injuring the fuselage.
Despite the extensive damage, which was later defined as the most serious type of malfunction and damage of at least $ 2.5 million, the plane landed safely.
Marine Corps spokesman Andrew Wood noted that "the incident did not cause any casualties."
This is not the first time that the internal cannon installed in the stealth aircraft has been reported to be problematic.
Last January, the Pentagon reported that the cannon was inaccurate and its use caused a disturbing cracking noise.
The F-35s are equipped with a 25 mm Gatling cannon, which can be used for rapid firing.