The F-35 Joint Program Office has released a statement to Defense News confirming that it had issued guidance to ground a limited number of newer F-35s following a crash involving an F-35B on Dec. 15 in Fort Worth, Texas.
In the statement, the F-35 Joint Program Office explained that it has issued a Time Compliance Technical Directive (TCTD) as a precautionary measure while the investigation into the December 15th crash continues. The TCTD restricts certain aircraft that have been identified as being at higher risk from engaging in flight operations until procedures can be put in place for their safe return to the air. The F-35 Joint Program Office emphasized that it has identified the specific aircraft that are affected by the TCTD and will work closely with the various branches of the U.S. military and international partners to ensure that the directive is properly followed. This includes developing procedures to address any potential issues and ensure the safe operation of these aircraft.
An anonymous source told Defense News that a high-pressure fuel tube for the jet’s F135 engine had failed in the Dec. 15 incident. Only aircraft with fewer than 40 flying hours are affected.
Earlier on, it was reported that Israel had grounded 11 of its F-35As as a precaution after the crash occured.
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