Watch: US navy F-35 crashes near Lemoore Air Station in California; fiery wreckage sends smoke billowing

A US Navy F-35 fighter jet crashed in central California on Wednesday evening, according to a statement released by the Navy. The pilot managed to eject safely.The incident occurred around 6:30 pm near Naval Air Station Lemoore, which is located about 40 miles southwest of Fresno. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation, according to CNN. The aircraft was assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron VF-125, also known as the “Rough Raiders,” the Navy said. VF-125 functions as a Fleet Replacement Squadron, tasked with training pilots and aircrew on operating the F-35.In its statement, the Navy confirmed that the pilot was able to eject and that no immediate injuries were reported. Further details about the condition of the pilot or any damage caused by the crash were not provided.Naval Air Station Lemoore is the Navy’s primary base for its strike fighter aircraft operations on the West Coast and plays a central role in preparing aviators for combat readiness.