Core Viewpoint - The root cause of the F-35 crash at Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska was identified as hydraulic oil contamination leading to ice formation on the landing gear [1][6]. Group 1: Incident Details - The F-35 crash occurred on January 28, resulting in a total loss of the aircraft and an estimated cost of $196.5 million to the U.S. Air Force [4][6]. - The aircraft crashed vertically and exploded upon impact, but the pilot successfully ejected with minor injuries [4][6]. Group 2: Investigation Findings - The investigation revealed that the contamination of hydraulic oil with water caused ice to form in both the front and main landing gear struts, preventing them from fully extending [6]. - The investigation committee also noted that crew decision-making, lack of oversight on hazardous materials, and failure to adhere to hydraulic maintenance procedures were significant contributing factors to the accident [6]. Group 3: Broader Implications - The incident highlighted issues with the F-35's avionics, particularly the automatic ground operation mode, which incorrectly determined that the aircraft had landed while it was still in the air due to the ice affecting the landing gear [6]. - The F-35 program is the most expensive defense project in the U.S., with the Pentagon planning to spend $1.7 trillion on the acquisition of 2,500 aircraft over the coming decades [8].
F-35坠毁,调查结果公布