Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent crash of an F-35 fighter jet in California, the implications for the U.S. Air Force's procurement plans, and the delays in software upgrades affecting the F-35 program [1][2]. Group 1: Incident Details - An F-35 fighter jet crashed near Lemoore Naval Air Station in California on July 31, with the pilot successfully ejecting and no other injuries reported [1]. - The cause of the crash is under investigation, and no further details have been released by the military or Lockheed Martin [1]. Group 2: Procurement Implications - The U.S. Air Force has reduced its planned procurement of F-35 jets to 24 units in its 2026 budget proposal, which is half of the previous year's plan and lower than the 44 jets procured in 2025 [1]. - The reduction is attributed to dissatisfaction with delays in the Block 4 upgrade configuration and adjustments in the Pentagon's budget [1][2]. Group 3: Software and Hardware Delays - The U.S. Department of Defense has delayed the delivery of F-35 jets due to software improvement delays, withholding up to $5 million in final payments per aircraft until Lockheed Martin demonstrates that upgrades can support intensive training and combat operations [2]. - The Air Force Chief of Staff emphasized the need for the F-35s to address urgent threats, indicating that delays in Block 4 and TR-3 upgrades have influenced procurement decisions [2].