Türkiye Is Making A Major Push To Modernize Its Air Force — And President Erdogan Wants U.S. Sanctions Lifted To Rejoin The F-35 Fighter Jet Program. After Years Of Tension Over Ankara’s Ties With Moscow And The S-400 Deal, Türkiye Is Now Seeking A Reset With Washington. Will The U.S. Respond? What Does This Mean For NATO's Southern Flank?

Erdogan Pushes Washington to Lift Sanctions, Revive F-35 Access

The F-22, launched in 2005, was engineered for unrivalled air dominance and is operated exclusively by the United States. The F-35, introduced in 2015, is a multirole, networked fighter flown by the US and over 15 allied nations worldwide.

The F-22, launched in 2005, was engineered for unrivalled air dominance and is operated exclusively by the United States. The F-35, introduced in 2015, is a multirole, networked fighter flown by the US and over 15 allied nations worldwide.

F-22 vs F-35: 6 shocking facts that reveal how America’s fifth-generation stealth fighter jets are worlds apart

This integration allows pilots to maintain situational awareness without needing to look down at cockpit instruments, enhancing their ability to respond swiftly in combat scenarios. 

This integration allows pilots to maintain situational awareness without needing to look down at cockpit instruments, enhancing their ability to respond swiftly in combat scenarios.&nbsp;

5 fighter jets that use Iron-Man-style helmets for targeting and vision

The F-35 Lightning II boasts the Gen III Helmet-Mounted Display System (HMDS), which projects critical flight data directly onto the pilot's visor.

The F-35 Lightning II boasts the Gen III Helmet-Mounted Display System (HMDS), which projects critical flight data directly onto the pilot's visor.

Top 7 fighter jets so extreme pilots need smart suits just to stay conscious

Modern fighter jets integrate these facilities to enhance human performance, allowing pilots to operate effectively under extreme conditions.

Modern fighter jets integrate these facilities to enhance human performance, allowing pilots to operate effectively under extreme conditions.

Top 7 fighter jet features that turn pilots into real-life superhumans

The U.S. has issued a stark warning to Canada over its possible decision to cancel the F-35 fighter jet deal. As Ottawa reviews its $19B order for 88 jets, American officials say pulling out could harm NORAD interoperability and spark broader consequences. With growing diplomatic tensions between the two allies and Canada's defense review due by Sept. 22, all eyes are now on Prime Minister Mark Carney's final decision.

U.S. warns Canada over F-35 exit: 'Expect consequences'

Compared Su-57 and F-35 on radar stealth, speed and missile technology, shape, materials, kinematics, sensors.

Compared Su-57 and F-35 on radar stealth, speed and missile technology, shape, materials, kinematics, sensors.

Su-57 vs F-35: Radar stealth, speed and missile tech compared

The US Air Force F-35 pilot who was forced to eject before his fighter jet crashed onto an Alaska runway earlier this year had a 50 minute conference call mid-air with engineers so that the fault could be fixed.&nbsp;A video of the January 28 crash at Eielson Air Force Base in Fairbanks had gone viral after the incident in which the aircraft could be seen dropping straight down and exploding in a fireball, before the pilot ejects and safely floats to the ground with the help of a parachute. The pilot escaped with only minor injuries but the $200 million fighter jet went up in flames and was destroyed completely.&nbsp;Why and how did the crash happen&nbsp;The accident took place when the pilot tried to retract the landing gear after takeoff but failed to do completely. Attempts to fix the landing gear did not work and the plane crashed.&nbsp;According to an Air Force investigation, ice in the hydraulic lines in the nose and main landing gears of the F-35 prevented the &nbsp;landing gear &nbsp;to function properly due to which the crash happened, reported CNN.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 BREAKING: U.S. Air Force REVEALS Shocking Details of Jan. 28 F-35 Crash in Alaska 💥 <a href="https://t.co/aQolSFqtMe">pic.twitter.com/aQolSFqtMe</a>&mdash; Frontier Brief (@Frontierbrief) <a href="https://twitter.com/Frontierbrief/status/1960643073626792266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Pilots conversation with engineers and attempt to fix problem&nbsp;After having failed to figure out the problem with the landing gear and fix it by himself, the pilot got on a conference call with engineers from the plane’s manufacturer, Lockheed Martin.&nbsp;Five engineers, including a senior software engineer, a flight safety engineer and three specialists in landing gear systems, were part of the nearly one hour call trying to help the pilot but not much success could be achieved, reported the media outlet.&nbsp;Later, investigation into the incident revealed about one-third of fluid present in both the nose and right main landing gears of the the hydraulic systems, which should not have been the case.&nbsp;A similar hydraulic icing problem in another F-35 at the same base during a flight nine days after the crash was detected during the investigation, however, this time the jet landed safely.&nbsp;

The accident took place when the pilot of the F-35 jet tried to retract the landing gear after takeoff but failed to do completely.

The US Air Force F-35 pilot who was forced to eject before his fighter jet crashed onto an Alaska runway earlier this year had a 50 minute conference call mid-air with engineers so that the fault could be fixed. A video of the January 28 crash at Eielson Air Force Base in Fairbanks had gone viral after the incident in which the aircraft could be seen dropping straight down and exploding in a fireball, before the pilot ejects and safely floats to the ground with the help of a parachute. The pilot escaped with only minor injuries but the $200 million fighter jet went up in flames and was destroyed completely. Why and how did the crash happen The accident took place when the pilot tried to retract the landing gear after takeoff but failed to do completely. Attempts to fix the landing gear did not work and the plane crashed. According to an Air Force investigation, ice in the hydraulic lines in the nose and main landing gears of the F-35 prevented the landing gear to function properly due to which the crash happened, reported CNN.

The accident took place when the pilot of the F-35 jet tried to retract the landing gear after takeoff but failed to do completely.

Alaska jet crash: F-35 pilot spent almost an hour on conference with engineers mid-air

Spain has decided to replace its ageing fighter jets with European aircraft instead of buying US-made F-35s, in a move that reflects worsening defence ties with Washington. The Spanish defence ministry told the Financial Times that it plans to rely on the existing Eurofighter and the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), a joint European programme involving France, Germany, and Spain. “The Spanish option consists of the current Eurofighter and the FCAS in the future,” the ministry said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-dream-prison-in-trouble-judge-halts-alligator-alcatraz-construction-to-protect-florida-panthers-and-endangered-bats-1754602049436">Trump's dream prison in trouble? Judge halts ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ construction to protect Florida panthers and endangered bats</a><h2>Trump’s demands on spending add to the tensions</h2>The shift comes months after Donald Trump criticised Spain for refusing to raise its military spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, a demand he made to NATO allies. The US president had called Spain’s stance “terrible”, adding pressure on an already strained relationship. Spain’s decision now sets it apart from other NATO countries, many of which rely heavily on American arms.<h2>Critics in Spain demand answers</h2>The opposition People’s Party has asked Spain’s defence minister, Margarita Robles, to appear before Congress and explain the decision. “We are witnessing yet another example of the Sánchez government’s core doctrine, which prioritises sectarianism and confrontation with the United States over the general interest and even the country’s security,” said senior PP lawmaker Cuca Gamarra. The news was first reported by El País.<h2>Why Spain passed on the F-35</h2>The F-35, developed by Lockheed Martin, is the world’s most advanced long-range stealth jet and serves as the mainstay of several Western air forces. It’s used by the US and 19 allied countries, including non-NATO members like Japan. Spain was previously rumoured to be considering the F-35 for its future fleet, as it prepares to retire AV-8B Harriers and F-18s in the 2030s. However, the government recently opted to buy 25 additional Eurofighters, expanding its current fleet to 115. These jets, though advanced, are classified as 4.5th generation and lack the full capabilities of the F-35.The Eurofighters are built by Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, and are assembled at a plant near Madrid. Deliveries are expected between 2026 and 2030.<h2>What is FCAS and why is it a gamble?</h2>Spain is also part of the FCAS programme, which aims to deliver a next-generation combat system by 2040. This project includes a more powerful jet, drone integration, and cutting-edge software. But the programme has been slowed by disputes among its main partners, Airbus, Dassault Aviation, and Indra, raising concerns&nbsp;about&nbsp;delays.

The shift comes months after Donald Trump criticised Spain for refusing to raise its military spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, a demand he made to NATO allies.

Spain has decided to replace its ageing fighter jets with European aircraft instead of buying US-made F-35s, in a move that reflects worsening defence ties with Washington. The Spanish defence ministry told the Financial Times that it plans to rely on the existing Eurofighter and the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), a joint European programme involving France, Germany, and Spain. “The Spanish option consists of the current Eurofighter and the FCAS in the future,” the ministry said. Also read: Trump's dream prison in trouble? Judge halts ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ construction to protect Florida panthers and endangered bats Trump’s demands on spending add to the tensions The shift comes months after Donald Trump criticised Spain for refusing to raise its military spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, a demand he made to NATO allies. The US president had called Spain’s stance “terrible”, adding pressure on an already strained relationship. Spain’s decision now sets it apart from other NATO countries, many of which rely heavily on American arms. Critics in Spain demand answers The opposition People’s Party has asked Spain’s defence minister, Margarita Robles, to appear before Congress and explain the decision. “We are witnessing yet another example of the Sánchez government’s core doctrine, which prioritises sectarianism and confrontation with the United States over the general interest and even the country’s security,” said senior PP lawmaker Cuca Gamarra. The news was first reported by El País. Why Spain passed on the F-35 The F-35, developed by Lockheed Martin, is the world’s most advanced long-range stealth jet and serves as the mainstay of several Western air forces. It’s used by the US and 19 allied countries, including non-NATO members like Japan. Spain was previously rumoured to be considering the F-35 for its future fleet, as it prepares to retire AV-8B Harriers and F-18s in the 2030s. However, the government recently opted to buy 25 additional Eurofighters, expanding its current fleet to 115. These jets, though advanced, are classified as 4.5th generation and lack the full capabilities of the F-35. The Eurofighters are built by Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, and are assembled at a plant near Madrid. Deliveries are expected between 2026 and 2030. What is FCAS and why is it a gamble? Spain is also part of the FCAS programme, which aims to deliver a next-generation combat system by 2040. This project includes a more powerful jet, drone integration, and cutting-edge software. But the programme has been slowed by disputes among its main partners, Airbus, Dassault Aviation, and Indra, raising concerns about delays.

The shift comes months after Donald Trump criticised Spain for refusing to raise its military spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, a demand he made to NATO allies.

Spain ditches US stealth jet in defence shake-up with Europe - All you need to know

A British F-35 fighter jet made an emergency landing at Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) on Saturday after running low on fuel, the airport officials said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The jet took off from an aircraft carrier stationed approximately 100 nautical miles off the coast. Later. as it landed at 9:28 safely at the Kerala airport, its refuelling was completed.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, there’s something else that can also be done if a jet runs out of fuel mid-air. This F-35 made an emergency landing, but a viral video shows the jet can get refuelled mid-air.&nbsp;&nbsp;Last year, a video went viral showing the process of refuelling a jet. The stunning showcasing of how this process is done sparked curiosity among netizens.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">This is how jets refuel in midair.<a href="https://t.co/yJR11vfsR5">pic.twitter.com/yJR11vfsR5</a>&mdash; Wonder of Science (@wonderofscience) <a href="https://twitter.com/wonderofscience/status/1836761913910333498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In the video, a jet plane is seen flying high in the sky, showing a spectacular process of how the refuelling is being done. As shown, a pipe comes out from the plane with a suction valve. After it gets closer to another aircraft, the two planes connect with another pipe, making it easy to share fuel while in the air.&nbsp;&nbsp;The video was captioned, “This is how jets refuel in midair.”&nbsp;&nbsp;This happened first time in 2021 when the US Navy refuelled a F/A-18 Super Hornet using the unnamed drone MQ-25 T1.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/british-fighter-jet-makes-emergency-landing-in-thiruvananthapuram-1749968258108">Also read: British fighter jet makes emergency landing in Thiruvananthapuram</a>&nbsp;This marks a huge step up in aerial refuelling technology as we witness the advancement in technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier today, as the jet sought permission from the airport authorities for an emergency landing, the authorities declared an emergency to ensure a safe landing for the jet.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The jet is currently at the airport and the re-fuelling has been completed. It will be allowed to depart after requisite permission from the Indian authorities,” the official said.

This happened first time in 2021 when the US Navy refuelled a F/A-18 Super Hornet using the unnamed drone MQ-25 T1. 

A British F-35 fighter jet made an emergency landing at Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) on Saturday after running low on fuel, the airport officials said. The jet took off from an aircraft carrier stationed approximately 100 nautical miles off the coast. Later. as it landed at 9:28 safely at the Kerala airport, its refuelling was completed. However, there’s something else that can also be done if a jet runs out of fuel mid-air. This F-35 made an emergency landing, but a viral video shows the jet can get refuelled mid-air. Last year, a video went viral showing the process of refuelling a jet. The stunning showcasing of how this process is done sparked curiosity among netizens.

This happened first time in 2021 when the US Navy refuelled a F/A-18 Super Hornet using the unnamed drone MQ-25 T1.

What happens if a jet runs out of fuel mid-air? Know as British F-35 makes emergency landing in Kerala -WATCH

Stealth aircraft form the backbone of advanced air forces, with countries like US, Russia, and China leading the race in next-generation platforms.

F-22, F-35, Su-57, Rafale, and more: Check out the world’s top 6 stealth combat aircraft

New tariffs introduced by US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Donald Trump</a> could pose a serious threat to the country&rsquo;s defence industry, potentially harming international military projects and pushing up the cost of producing weapons, Politico reported.
Trump announced a wide-reaching list of &ldquo;reciprocal tariffs&rdquo; on 2 April, setting a standard 10% duty on all countries with higher rates imposed on key partners like the European Union. 
<h2>How will new tariffs affect US weapon production?</h2>
The new tariffs could disrupt long-standing international defence cooperation, with experts warning that joint projects like the F-35 fighter jet, missile defence systems, and nuclear submarines could be affected.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-first-to-fall-in-face-off-trump-tariffs-will-other-countries-follow-8926949" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Vietnam first to fall in face off Trump tariffs. Will other countries follow?</a>
The duties, which include a 20% levy on EU goods and 10% on imports from the UK and Australia, risk destabilising defence partnerships that have taken years to build.
The F-35 jet programme, which includes 20 nations and was designed to give partners a role in manufacturing, could face major delays. Other critical collaborations with countries such as Norway and Israel are also in question.
These projects are seen as vital for defence in Europe and the Indo-Pacific, particularly as tensions rise with Russia and China.&ldquo;There&rsquo;s going to be shortages of supplies, tit-for-tats, and our allies and other partners are going to retaliate,&rdquo; warned Bill Greenwalt, a former Pentagon acquisition official told Politico.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-its-a-great-time-to-get-rich-as-3-trillion-wiped-from-markets-after-tariffs-8926904" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;My policies will never change&rsquo;: Trump says it&rsquo;s a &lsquo;great time to get rich&rsquo; as $3 trillion wiped from markets after tariffs</a>
&ldquo;Some potentially vital supplies are either going to cost a whole heck of a lot more than what they did, or they&rsquo;re just not going to be available,&rdquo; he added.
The US Department of Defense has spent decades creating a complex global supply chain for military manufacturing, much of which is now caught up in the new tariffs.
&ldquo;We count on the US for the best equipment,&rdquo; a European official told Politico. 
&ldquo;European industrial capacity has greatly improved, and we want to be security providers, not just consumers,&rdquo; the official added.
The official also said Europe may now invest more in local production to reduce reliance on US parts and materials.
US Senator Mark Kelly also raised concerns, saying, &ldquo;The prices are going to go up, and the prices that DOD has to pay are going to go up.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Our defence budget, if we want to maintain the same type of force, will get more expensive,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hands-off-protests-anti-trump-demonstrations-to-be-held-across-us-tomorrow-everything-you-need-to-know-8926838">'Hands Off' protests: Anti-Trump demonstrations to be held across US tomorrow | Everything you need to know</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump announced a wide-reaching list of “reciprocal tariffs” on 2 April, setting a standard 10% duty on all countries with higher rates imposed on key partners like the European Union.

New tariffs introduced by US President Donald Trump could pose a serious threat to the country’s defence industry, potentially harming international military projects and pushing up the cost of producing weapons, Politico reported. Trump announced a wide-reaching list of “reciprocal tariffs” on 2 April, setting a standard 10% duty on all countries with higher rates imposed on key partners like the European Union. How will new tariffs affect US weapon production? The new tariffs could disrupt long-standing international defence cooperation, with experts warning that joint projects like the F-35 fighter jet, missile defence systems, and nuclear submarines could be affected. Also read: Vietnam first to fall in face off Trump tariffs. Will other countries follow? The duties, which include a 20% levy on EU goods and 10% on imports from the UK and Australia, risk destabilising defence partnerships that have taken years to build. The F-35 jet programme, which includes 20 nations and was designed to give partners a role in manufacturing, could face major delays. Other critical collaborations with countries such as Norway and Israel are also in question. These projects are seen as vital for defence in Europe and the Indo-Pacific, particularly as tensions rise with Russia and China.“There’s going to be shortages of supplies, tit-for-tats, and our allies and other partners are going to retaliate,” warned Bill Greenwalt, a former Pentagon acquisition official told Politico. Also read: ‘My policies will never change’: Trump says it’s a ‘great time to get rich’ as $3 trillion wiped from markets after tariffs “Some potentially vital supplies are either going to cost a whole heck of a lot more than what they did, or they’re just not going to be available,” he added. The US Department of Defense has spent decades creating a complex global supply chain for military manufacturing, much of which is now caught up in the new tariffs. “We count on the US for the best equipment,” a European official told Politico. “European industrial capacity has greatly improved, and we want to be security providers, not just consumers,” the official added. The official also said Europe may now invest more in local production to reduce reliance on US parts and materials. US Senator Mark Kelly also raised concerns, saying, “The prices are going to go up, and the prices that DOD has to pay are going to go up.” “Our defence budget, if we want to maintain the same type of force, will get more expensive,” he added. Also read: 'Hands Off' protests: Anti-Trump demonstrations to be held across US tomorrow | Everything you need to know (With inputs from agencies)

'Pentagon will pay': Did Trump shoot US weapon production in foot with reciprocal tariffs? F-35, NATO partnerships at risk

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: 

- Trump Offers H-35 Jets To India
- Ready To Take Back Illegal Migrants: PM Modi
- Trump Announces 'Reciprocal' Tariffs

Trump offers advanced F-35 jets to India as defense relations strengthen

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) does&nbsp;not&nbsp;expect to resume talks with the US&nbsp;about a multi-billion dollar deal for F-35 warplanes, irrespective of who is elected to the White House in November, a senior&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;government official said on Saturday.

Reuters reported on Friday that the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;was&nbsp;planning to resume negotiations to purchase F-35s and armed drones if Donald Trump wins a second presidential term, according to several people familiar with the matter.

Trump had signed off on a deal to allow the purchase to go ahead in the final days of his presidency in 2021, but the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;suspended talks at the end of that year, unable to agree terms with the Biden administration.

The&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;has long sought the most advanced fighter jet, built with stealth technology allowing it to evade enemy detection.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi7g-uf4MKIAxVNavUHHba9IzEQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistans-special-representative-for-afghanistan-asif-durrani-steps-down-758552" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistans-special-representative-for-afghanistan-asif-durrani-steps-down-758552&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi7g-uf4MKIAxVNavUHHba9IzEQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE">Pakistan’s special representative for Afghanistan Asif Durrani steps down</a>

If the US did approve the transfer, the&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;would be only the second Middle East state, after Israel, to operate F-35s.

The&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;official said on Saturday the same factors that caused it to suspend the talks in 2021 have&nbsp;not&nbsp;changed and the government&nbsp;does&nbsp;not&nbsp;plan&nbsp;to re-open negotiations.

"Our position remains unchanged and we do&nbsp;not&nbsp;anticipate discussions regarding the F-35 being reopened for the foreseeable future, irrespective of the outcome of the upcoming&nbsp;US&nbsp;elections," the senior&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;official said in a statement to Reuters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi7g-uf4MKIAxVNavUHHba9IzEQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/uae-residents-lose-millions-from-schengen-visa-rejections-741058" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/trending/uae-residents-lose-millions-from-schengen-visa-rejections-741058&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi7g-uf4MKIAxVNavUHHba9IzEQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">UAE residents lose millions from Schengen visa rejections</a>

"Technical requirements, sovereign operational restrictions and cost/benefit analysis led to the reassessment at that time, and those considerations underpin our ongoing position."

The official did&nbsp;not&nbsp;comment on the possibility of fresh talks to purchase armed drones.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) does not expect to resume talks with the US about a multi-billion dollar deal for F-35 warplanes, irrespective of who is elected to the White House in November, a senior UAE government official said on Saturday.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) does not expect to resume talks with the US about a multi-billion dollar deal for F-35 warplanes, irrespective of who is elected to the White House in November, a senior UAE government official said on Saturday. Reuters reported on Friday that the UAE was planning to resume negotiations to purchase F-35s and armed drones if Donald Trump wins a second presidential term, according to several people familiar with the matter. Trump had signed off on a deal to allow the purchase to go ahead in the final days of his presidency in 2021, but the UAE suspended talks at the end of that year, unable to agree terms with the Biden administration. The UAE has long sought the most advanced fighter jet, built with stealth technology allowing it to evade enemy detection. Also read: Pakistan’s special representative for Afghanistan Asif Durrani steps down If the US did approve the transfer, the UAE would be only the second Middle East state, after Israel, to operate F-35s. The UAE official said on Saturday the same factors that caused it to suspend the talks in 2021 have not changed and the government does not plan to re-open negotiations. "Our position remains unchanged and we do not anticipate discussions regarding the F-35 being reopened for the foreseeable future, irrespective of the outcome of the upcoming US elections," the senior UAE official said in a statement to Reuters. Also read: UAE residents lose millions from Schengen visa rejections "Technical requirements, sovereign operational restrictions and cost/benefit analysis led to the reassessment at that time, and those considerations underpin our ongoing position." The official did not comment on the possibility of fresh talks to purchase armed drones. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UAE not seeking to resume F-35 talks with US irrespective of election outcome

The United States has resumed taking delivery of the F-35 jets fitted with an interim upgrade following a halt that stretched to months over software delays and will withhold some payments until the remaining enhancements are done, senior officials quoted by Reuters said on Saturday.&nbsp;

The jets have gotten some much-needed upgrades through a Lockheed Martin programme, involving key suppliers, called Technology Refresh 3, or TR-3, which aims to improve the displays and the processing power.&nbsp;

"We are starting to accept deliveries of TR-3...It is a truncated version...and does not have all the functionality that we want, but it is far enough along that we can accept delivery now," Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall said. 
TR-3 includes hardware and software improvements and is just one piece of a broader upgrade to the nation's stealth jet known as Block 4.

"The hardware of that seems to be coming along fine but the software is lagging," Kendall told reporters at the Royal International Air Tattoo in Britain.

"We are at a point now where we can accept aircraft with the understanding that additional increments of software have to go in to get it to where we need it to be."

Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Andrew Hunter stated that the decision to restart the deliveries prior to completion of the software upgrade was to keep other features from being delayed further.&nbsp;

"Waiting and waiting and waiting to finalise those capabilities that weren't quite ready is actually holding up progress on some of the later capabilities that we also really need," he said.

Hunter said the Pentagon will still withhold a portion of the final payments for each jet but declined to say how much.

So far, about $7 million of each jet's final payment has been held back. Each jet is worth about $100 million.

"Not everything we contracted for has been delivered... We will not pay for that which we have not received," Hunter said.

Offsetting the frustration of the delays, Hunter said the work to finish TR-3 has forged closer cooperation between companies involved in the world's largest defence program.

"We are going to work very hard to ensure that that process of bringing down those barriers continues so that Block 4 comes through when we need it," he said.

The United States has resumed taking delivery of the F-35 jets fitted with an interim upgrade following a halt that stretched to months over software delays and will withhold some payments until the remaining enhancements are done, senior officials quoted by Reuters said on Saturday.

The United States has resumed taking delivery of the F-35 jets fitted with an interim upgrade following a halt that stretched to months over software delays and will withhold some payments until the remaining enhancements are done, senior officials quoted by Reuters said on Saturday. The jets have gotten some much-needed upgrades through a Lockheed Martin programme, involving key suppliers, called Technology Refresh 3, or TR-3, which aims to improve the displays and the processing power. "We are starting to accept deliveries of TR-3...It is a truncated version...and does not have all the functionality that we want, but it is far enough along that we can accept delivery now," Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall said. TR-3 includes hardware and software improvements and is just one piece of a broader upgrade to the nation's stealth jet known as Block 4. "The hardware of that seems to be coming along fine but the software is lagging," Kendall told reporters at the Royal International Air Tattoo in Britain. "We are at a point now where we can accept aircraft with the understanding that additional increments of software have to go in to get it to where we need it to be." Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Andrew Hunter stated that the decision to restart the deliveries prior to completion of the software upgrade was to keep other features from being delayed further. "Waiting and waiting and waiting to finalise those capabilities that weren't quite ready is actually holding up progress on some of the later capabilities that we also really need," he said. Hunter said the Pentagon will still withhold a portion of the final payments for each jet but declined to say how much. So far, about $7 million of each jet's final payment has been held back. Each jet is worth about $100 million. "Not everything we contracted for has been delivered... We will not pay for that which we have not received," Hunter said. Offsetting the frustration of the delays, Hunter said the work to finish TR-3 has forged closer cooperation between companies involved in the world's largest defence program. "We are going to work very hard to ensure that that process of bringing down those barriers continues so that Block 4 comes through when we need it," he said.

Pentagon resumes F-35 deliveries amid software delays and interim upgrades

Israel said Tuesday it signed a $3 billion deal to buy a third squadron of 25 advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets manufactured by Lockheed Martin, with the delivery to commence in 2028.

"At time when some of our adversaries aim to undermine our ties with our greatest ally, we only further strengthen our alliance," Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said in a statement announcing the deal.

"This sends a powerful message to our enemies across the region."

The defence ministry said the deal would bring to 75 the number of F-35s in Israel's fleet.

WATCH:&nbsp;Israel war: Displaced Israelis wonder if schools will open, forced to leave due to Hezbollah fire

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"The delivery of the aircrafts to the IDF (army) will commence in 2028 at a rate of three to five aircrafts per year," the ministry said in a statement.

Israel is the only Middle East nation with F-35s, the world's most advanced fighter which is stealth capable and can be used to gather intelligence, strike deep into enemy territory and engage in air duels.

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In May 2018, Israel's military said it had become the first country to use F-35s in combat.

Even before the war with Hamas erupted on October 7, Israel had launched hundreds of raids on Syrian territory during that country's years of war, primarily targeting Iran-backed forces and Lebanese Hezbollah fighters as well as Syrian army positions.

In April, Iran carried out its first-ever direct attack on Israel using more than 300 drones and missiles as the war with Hamas in Gaza raged. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Israel said Tuesday it signed a $3 billion deal to buy a third squadron of 25 advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets manufactured by Lockheed Martin, with the delivery to commence in 2028.

Israel said Tuesday it signed a $3 billion deal to buy a third squadron of 25 advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets manufactured by Lockheed Martin, with the delivery to commence in 2028. "At time when some of our adversaries aim to undermine our ties with our greatest ally, we only further strengthen our alliance," Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said in a statement announcing the deal. "This sends a powerful message to our enemies across the region." The defence ministry said the deal would bring to 75 the number of F-35s in Israel's fleet. WATCH: Israel war: Displaced Israelis wonder if schools will open, forced to leave due to Hezbollah fire × "The delivery of the aircrafts to the IDF (army) will commence in 2028 at a rate of three to five aircrafts per year," the ministry said in a statement. Israel is the only Middle East nation with F-35s, the world's most advanced fighter which is stealth capable and can be used to gather intelligence, strike deep into enemy territory and engage in air duels. Also read: Republican-led US House votes to sanction ICC, defends Israel against war crime charges In May 2018, Israel's military said it had become the first country to use F-35s in combat. Even before the war with Hamas erupted on October 7, Israel had launched hundreds of raids on Syrian territory during that country's years of war, primarily targeting Iran-backed forces and Lebanese Hezbollah fighters as well as Syrian army positions. In April, Iran carried out its first-ever direct attack on Israel using more than 300 drones and missiles as the war with Hamas in Gaza raged. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel inks $3 billion deal with US for 25 F-35 fighter jets

A court in the Netherlands has ordered the government not to deliver parts of F-35 fighter jets to Israel amid allegations of human rights violations in Gaza. A Dutch court on Monday (Feb 12) upheld that supplying the parts to Israel contributed to alleged violations by Israel in its war against Hamas. "The court orders the State to cease all actual export and transit of F-35 parts with final destination Israel within seven days after service of this judgement," said the ruling.

<h2>Why it matters?</h2>

It is to be noted that the F-35 parts are totally owned by US but stored in a warehouse in the Netherlands under bilateral agreements. The Dutch government thus plays a minimal role in the whole process and lacks control over it.

However, several rights groups were pressing the Dutch government to take steps to rein in the deliveries to Israel. "In doing so, the Netherlands is contributing to serious violations of humanitarian law of war in Gaza," the rights groups argue.

<h2>‘A political decision’ </h2>

Earlier, a local court in The Hague had ruled that the decision to deliver F-35 parts to Israel was totally political and judges should not interfere.

"The considerations that the minister makes are to a large extent of a political and policy nature and judges should leave the minister a large amount of freedom," the court ruled at the time.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel protesters call for early polls, thinks Gantz most suitable PM candidate

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Even the government also argued in the court that if the Netherlands stopped delivery of F-35 parts, the Jewish nation could procure them from anywhere else very easily.

<h2>Allegations against Israel</h2>

Several human rights groups have claimed that Israel is committing grave violations in the name of retaliation to the Oct 7 Hamas attacks in the Gaza Strip.

Above 28,000 people have died in the tiny enclave, mostly women and children.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0SQlnEWmdL2dNGveEiWDkT" data-ved="2ahUKEwiDxJimiaaEAxXHyzgGHbelCnAQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/israel-economy-poised-for-recovery-despite-moodys-downgrade-says-bank-of-israel-governor-689496" jsname="YKoRaf">Israel economy poised for recovery despite Moody`s downgrade, says bank of Israel Governor</a>

The International Court of Justice in The Hague, which rules on disputes between states, has said Israel must do everything possible to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza.

That ruling "strengthens our confidence in a positive ruling in our case", said PAX Netherlands, one of the rights groups involved in the appeal.

(With inputs from agencies)

A court in the Netherlands has ordered the government not to deliver parts of F-35 fighter jets to Israel amid allegations of human rights violations in Gaza. A Dutch court on Monday (Feb 12) upheld that supplying the parts to Israel contributed to alleged violations by Israel in its war against Hamas.

A court in the Netherlands has ordered the government not to deliver parts of F-35 fighter jets to Israel amid allegations of human rights violations in Gaza. A Dutch court on Monday (Feb 12) upheld that supplying the parts to Israel contributed to alleged violations by Israel in its war against Hamas. "The court orders the State to cease all actual export and transit of F-35 parts with final destination Israel within seven days after service of this judgement," said the ruling. Why it matters? It is to be noted that the F-35 parts are totally owned by US but stored in a warehouse in the Netherlands under bilateral agreements. The Dutch government thus plays a minimal role in the whole process and lacks control over it. However, several rights groups were pressing the Dutch government to take steps to rein in the deliveries to Israel. "In doing so, the Netherlands is contributing to serious violations of humanitarian law of war in Gaza," the rights groups argue. ‘A political decision’ Earlier, a local court in The Hague had ruled that the decision to deliver F-35 parts to Israel was totally political and judges should not interfere. "The considerations that the minister makes are to a large extent of a political and policy nature and judges should leave the minister a large amount of freedom," the court ruled at the time. Watch: Israel protesters call for early polls, thinks Gantz most suitable PM candidate × Even the government also argued in the court that if the Netherlands stopped delivery of F-35 parts, the Jewish nation could procure them from anywhere else very easily. Allegations against Israel Several human rights groups have claimed that Israel is committing grave violations in the name of retaliation to the Oct 7 Hamas attacks in the Gaza Strip. Above 28,000 people have died in the tiny enclave, mostly women and children. Also read: Israel economy poised for recovery despite Moody`s downgrade, says bank of Israel Governor The International Court of Justice in The Hague, which rules on disputes between states, has said Israel must do everything possible to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza. That ruling "strengthens our confidence in a positive ruling in our case", said PAX Netherlands, one of the rights groups involved in the appeal. (With inputs from agencies)

Court orders Dutch govt to stop delivery of F-35 jet parts to Israel over human rights

The F-35 fighter jet is arguably the world's most advanced fifth-generation fighter jet. A single F-35 fighter costs an average of a $100 million. But the F-35 weapons program over the course of its life span will cost the American exchequer a staggering $1.7 trillion. Making the F-35 fighter jet program, the most expensive weapons program in history anywhere in the world. But does the F-35 fighter jet justify the cost of its development? Mohammed Saleh explores.

Can the United States' F-35 compete with Russian & Chinese fighter jets?

In a bizarre 911 call made from a home in South Carolina by the military pilot, whose advanced fighter jet went missing temporarily over the weekend, can be heard making repeated requests for an ambulance, as per an audio recording released on Thursday (September 21) through the Associated Press. It was the same house where the pilot had landed safely using a parachute after ejecting. 
 
In the four-minute recording, the bizarre circumstances in which three unidentified people were involved - a North Charleston resident who was explaining calmly how a pilot just landed in his backyard, the pilot who is worried about his F-35 jet and a puzzled dispatcher who is not being able to make sense of the conversation at all – have been recorded. 
 
“We got a pilot in the house, and I guess he landed in my backyard, and we’re trying to see if we could get an ambulance to the house, please,” the resident stated.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-f-35b-plane-suspected-to-be-in-air-after-pilot-safely-ejects-after-mishap-637014">US: F-35B fighter jet goes missing after pilot safely ejects</a>

The pilot, who confirmed that he was 47 years old, reported that he was feeling “ok” after landing from an estimated height of 2,000ft. He said that only his back was hurt. The resident said the pilot appeared fine. 
 
“Ma’am, a military jet crashed. I’m the pilot. We need to get the rescue rolling. I’m not sure where the airplane is. It would have crash landed somewhere. I ejected,” said the pilot. Later in the telephone call, the pilot made another plea for medical help. 
 
“Ma’am, I’m a pilot in a military aircraft, and I ejected. So I just rode a parachute down to the ground. Can you please send an ambulance?” the pilot stated. The pilot was described by the Marines as an experienced aviator who had decades of experience in the cockpit.

<h2>F-35 prompted pilot to eject over Charleston</h2>

On Sunday, the F-35 crashed after the pilot was prompted to eject over Charleston due to a malfunction and land in the residential backyard which was not far from Charleston International Airport. 
 
The fighter jet which was reported to be at an altitude of only about 1,000ft (300 metres) by the Marine Corps continued flying for 60 miles (100 km) until it crashed in a rural area. In more than a day's time, the officials were able to locate the wreckage.

WATCH |&nbsp;US military's F-35 fighter jet flies without pilot after mid-air 'mishap'

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The news agency also released a separate eight-minute dispatch call in which an unidentified official was heard explaining that they had “a pilot with his parachute” but no information was shared regarding his plane or the crash. He stated that “the pilot lost sight of it on his way down due to the weather”.

You can&nbsp;now write for&nbsp;wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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In a bizarre 911 call made from a home in South Carolina by the military pilot, whose advanced fighter jet went missing temporarily over the weekend, can be heard making repeated requests for an ambulance, as per an audio recording released on Thursday (September 21) through the Associated Press.

In a bizarre 911 call made from a home in South Carolina by the military pilot, whose advanced fighter jet went missing temporarily over the weekend, can be heard making repeated requests for an ambulance, as per an audio recording released on Thursday (September 21) through the Associated Press. It was the same house where the pilot had landed safely using a parachute after ejecting. In the four-minute recording, the bizarre circumstances in which three unidentified people were involved - a North Charleston resident who was explaining calmly how a pilot just landed in his backyard, the pilot who is worried about his F-35 jet and a puzzled dispatcher who is not being able to make sense of the conversation at all – have been recorded. “We got a pilot in the house, and I guess he landed in my backyard, and we’re trying to see if we could get an ambulance to the house, please,” the resident stated. ALSO READ | US: F-35B fighter jet goes missing after pilot safely ejects The pilot, who confirmed that he was 47 years old, reported that he was feeling “ok” after landing from an estimated height of 2,000ft. He said that only his back was hurt. The resident said the pilot appeared fine. “Ma’am, a military jet crashed. I’m the pilot. We need to get the rescue rolling. I’m not sure where the airplane is. It would have crash landed somewhere. I ejected,” said the pilot. Later in the telephone call, the pilot made another plea for medical help. “Ma’am, I’m a pilot in a military aircraft, and I ejected. So I just rode a parachute down to the ground. Can you please send an ambulance?” the pilot stated. The pilot was described by the Marines as an experienced aviator who had decades of experience in the cockpit. F-35 prompted pilot to eject over Charleston On Sunday, the F-35 crashed after the pilot was prompted to eject over Charleston due to a malfunction and land in the residential backyard which was not far from Charleston International Airport. The fighter jet which was reported to be at an altitude of only about 1,000ft (300 metres) by the Marine Corps continued flying for 60 miles (100 km) until it crashed in a rural area. In more than a day's time, the officials were able to locate the wreckage. WATCH | US military's F-35 fighter jet flies without pilot after mid-air 'mishap' The news agency also released a separate eight-minute dispatch call in which an unidentified official was heard explaining that they had “a pilot with his parachute” but no information was shared regarding his plane or the crash. He stated that “the pilot lost sight of it on his way down due to the weather”. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘We got a pilot in the house’: Bizarre 911 call reveals details of events before F-35 crash

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- US military's F-35 fighter jet flies without pilot after mid-air 'mishap'.

US military's F-35 fighter jet flies without pilot after mid-air 'mishap' | Trending on WION

The Indian Air Force has always been largely dependent on Foreign-origin fighter aircraft, however, in recent years the Indian aerospace industry has been able to rise up to the challenge and produce indigenous fighter jet 'Tejas'. While it is a fair start, much more needs to be done to keep up the progress and move ahead. Our Correspondent Sidharth.M.P spoke to Director General of India's Centre for Air Power studies to understand the top priorities for Indian defence aviation sector.

Will India get the F-35 or develop its own 5th Gen aircraft? The way forward for Indian fighter jets

An F-35A Joint Strike Fighter jet crashed at the Florida Air Force Base during a routine training flight on Tuesday (October 18), the US Air Force said.

As per officials, the pilot successfully ejected and was later admitted to the hospital where he is now in stable condition.&nbsp;

The F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 58th Fighter Squadron of the 33rd Wing crashed, the air force statement said. There was no major loss of life or any civilian properties, Military.com reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/target-ukraine-us-f-35-vs-russian-air-force-su-57-jets-who-wins-450431">Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;Target Ukraine: US F-35 vs Russian Air Force SU-57 jets, who wins?</a>

The crash occurred nearly 12 miles from Eglin during the test training range.

A thorough investigation is underway. 
 
This the second American F-35 crash within two years.&nbsp;

On a routine training flight last Friday morning near Eglin, an F-22 Raptor had crashed.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-air-force-general-john-hyten-calls-china-pacing-threat-424911">Also read |&nbsp;US Air Force General John Hyten calls China 'pacing threat'</a>

In September 2018, a Marine Corps F-35B belonging to Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 crashed in South Carolina.

A similar incident happened in Japan as well in the year 2019 when a Japanese F-35A variant crashed into the Pacific Ocean 30 minutes after taking off.

The F-35 series is an expensive programme that cost over $1 trillion. As per official sources, the Pentagon has requested to cut expenses where it can be hoped to slash the F35's price to $80 million per jet.

(With inputs from agencies)



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&nbsp;

An F-35A Joint Strike Fighter jet crashed at the Florida Air Force Base during a routine training flight on Tuesday (October 18), the US Air Force said. As per officials, the pilot successfully ejected and was later admitted to the hospital where he is now in stable condition.

An F-35A Joint Strike Fighter jet crashed at the Florida Air Force Base during a routine training flight on Tuesday (October 18), the US Air Force said. As per officials, the pilot successfully ejected and was later admitted to the hospital where he is now in stable condition. The F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 58th Fighter Squadron of the 33rd Wing crashed, the air force statement said. There was no major loss of life or any civilian properties, Military.com reported. Also read | Target Ukraine: US F-35 vs Russian Air Force SU-57 jets, who wins? The crash occurred nearly 12 miles from Eglin during the test training range. A thorough investigation is underway. This the second American F-35 crash within two years. On a routine training flight last Friday morning near Eglin, an F-22 Raptor had crashed. Also read | US Air Force General John Hyten calls China 'pacing threat' In September 2018, a Marine Corps F-35B belonging to Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 crashed in South Carolina. A similar incident happened in Japan as well in the year 2019 when a Japanese F-35A variant crashed into the Pacific Ocean 30 minutes after taking off. The F-35 series is an expensive programme that cost over $1 trillion. As per official sources, the Pentagon has requested to cut expenses where it can be hoped to slash the F35's price to $80 million per jet. (With inputs from agencies)  WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US Air Force F-35A jet crashes in Florida, pilot ejects safely, probe on

The Pentagon has said it is temporarily halting deliveries of Lockheed Martin Corp’s F-35 aircraft after it found out that an alloy made in China was being used in a component of the fighter jet. A magnet with the alloy is being used in a part of the integrated power package, but Pentagon said that it posed no security issue. However, it violates federal defence acquisition rules.

"We have confirmed that the magnet does not transmit information or harm the integrity of the aircraft and there are no performance, quality, safety, or security risks associated with this issue and flight operations for the F-35 in-service fleet will continue as normal," Defense Department spokesperson Russ Goemaere was quoted as saying by CNN.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sanctions-us-companies-for-supplying-arms-to-taiwan-455023">China sanctions US companies for supplying arms to Taiwan</a>

Since there is no security issue, the pause won’t affect operations of F-35s already delivered to the US military and other partners. A review to understand how the non-compliance took place is underway after the F-35 programme office voluntarily reported the matter. An alternative source for the alloy has already been found and it will be used in future jets.

Notably, a US law and a separate Pentagon acquisition regulation prohibit the use of certain specialty metals or alloys produced by “covered countries” mentioned in the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation series. These countries are China, Iran, North Korea and Russia. The Defense Contract Management Agency reported the violation to the F-35 programme office on August 19.

"We are working with our partners and DOD to ensure contractual compliance within the supply chain. The magnet has no visibility or access to any sensitive program information. The F-35 remains safe for flight and we are working with the DOD to resolve the issue as quickly as possible to resume deliveries," Lockheed Martin said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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The Pentagon has said it is temporarily halting deliveries of Lockheed Martin Corp’s F-35 aircraft after it found out that an alloy made in China was being used in a component of the fighter jet.

The Pentagon has said it is temporarily halting deliveries of Lockheed Martin Corp’s F-35 aircraft after it found out that an alloy made in China was being used in a component of the fighter jet. A magnet with the alloy is being used in a part of the integrated power package, but Pentagon said that it posed no security issue. However, it violates federal defence acquisition rules. "We have confirmed that the magnet does not transmit information or harm the integrity of the aircraft and there are no performance, quality, safety, or security risks associated with this issue and flight operations for the F-35 in-service fleet will continue as normal," Defense Department spokesperson Russ Goemaere was quoted as saying by CNN. Also Read | China sanctions US companies for supplying arms to Taiwan Since there is no security issue, the pause won’t affect operations of F-35s already delivered to the US military and other partners. A review to understand how the non-compliance took place is underway after the F-35 programme office voluntarily reported the matter. An alternative source for the alloy has already been found and it will be used in future jets. Notably, a US law and a separate Pentagon acquisition regulation prohibit the use of certain specialty metals or alloys produced by “covered countries” mentioned in the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation series. These countries are China, Iran, North Korea and Russia. The Defense Contract Management Agency reported the violation to the F-35 programme office on August 19. "We are working with our partners and DOD to ensure contractual compliance within the supply chain. The magnet has no visibility or access to any sensitive program information. The F-35 remains safe for flight and we are working with the DOD to resolve the issue as quickly as possible to resume deliveries," Lockheed Martin said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Pentagon halts F-35 jets’ deliveries due to use of Chinese alloy in component

US Air Force (USAF) general Kenneth Wilsbach said the US-built F-35 had an encounter with China's Chengdu J-20 adding that he was "relatively impressed with the command and control associated with the J-20."

The US general said the encounter took place in the East China Sea as he added that it was "too early to tell" whether the J20 would be "more like an F-35 that’s capable of doing many, many missions or more like an F-22 that is primarily an air superiority fighter".

The US general also touched on China's Shaanxi KJ-500 airborne early warning and control (AEW&amp;C) aircraft.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-dogfight-over-himalayas-between-indias-rafale-vs-chinas-j-20-stealth-fighter-who-wins-326656">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;In dogfight over Himalayas between India's Rafale vs China's J-20 stealth fighter, who wins?</a>

Wilsbach said: "Some of their very long-range air-to-air missiles are aided by that KJ-500. Being able to interrupt that kill chain is something that interests me greatly."

“But we notice that they are flying it pretty well. We recently had – I wouldn’t call it an engagement – where we got relatively close to the J-20s along with our F-35s in the East China Sea," the US general said.

Wilsbach's latest comments come as United States Navy recently recovered the F-35C Lightning II stealth fighter jet that sank in the South China Sea. The incident which took place in January had led to seven US sailors being injured as the plane was lost due to a landing mishap on the USS Carl Vinson.

Watch:&nbsp;US General warns of China's actions in the South China Sea amid Ukraine conflict

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The US retrieved the fighter jet from a depth of 12,400 feet using a remoted vehicle that attached lift lines from a ship's crane. Tensions between the US&nbsp;and China has increased in the past two years in the South China Sea.&nbsp;

China claims the islands and atolls as its own even as other countries including &nbsp;Taiwan and other Southeast Asian countries have also laid similar claims.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-j-20-fighter-jets-can-change-russia-china-military-dynamic-404657">Also Read:&nbsp;How J-20 fighter jets can change Russia-China military dynamic</a>

China had said recently that its military budget is set to rise by 7.1 per cent this year to $230 billion which is slightly higher than the 6.8 per cent rise last year.

Premier Li Keqiang had said China is set to &nbsp;"enhance military training and combat readiness" as the country continues to modernise its defence forces.

(With inputs from Agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US Air Force (USAF) general Kenneth Wilsbach said the US-built F-35 had an encounter with China's Chengdu J-20 adding that he was "relatively impressed with the command and control associated with the J-20.

US Air Force (USAF) general Kenneth Wilsbach said the US-built F-35 had an encounter with China's Chengdu J-20 adding that he was "relatively impressed with the command and control associated with the J-20." The US general said the encounter took place in the East China Sea as he added that it was "too early to tell" whether the J20 would be "more like an F-35 that’s capable of doing many, many missions or more like an F-22 that is primarily an air superiority fighter". The US general also touched on China's Shaanxi KJ-500 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft. Also Read in Pics: In dogfight over Himalayas between India's Rafale vs China's J-20 stealth fighter, who wins? Wilsbach said: "Some of their very long-range air-to-air missiles are aided by that KJ-500. Being able to interrupt that kill chain is something that interests me greatly." “But we notice that they are flying it pretty well. We recently had – I wouldn’t call it an engagement – where we got relatively close to the J-20s along with our F-35s in the East China Sea," the US general said. Wilsbach's latest comments come as United States Navy recently recovered the F-35C Lightning II stealth fighter jet that sank in the South China Sea. The incident which took place in January had led to seven US sailors being injured as the plane was lost due to a landing mishap on the USS Carl Vinson. Watch: US General warns of China's actions in the South China Sea amid Ukraine conflict The US retrieved the fighter jet from a depth of 12,400 feet using a remoted vehicle that attached lift lines from a ship's crane. Tensions between the US and China has increased in the past two years in the South China Sea. China claims the islands and atolls as its own even as other countries including Taiwan and other Southeast Asian countries have also laid similar claims. Also Read: How J-20 fighter jets can change Russia-China military dynamic China had said recently that its military budget is set to rise by 7.1 per cent this year to $230 billion which is slightly higher than the 6.8 per cent rise last year. Premier Li Keqiang had said China is set to "enhance military training and combat readiness" as the country continues to modernise its defence forces. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Relatively impressed': US F-35 fighter jet has close encounter with China's J-20 in East China Sea

What is the exact 'deficiency' of F-35 fighter jet? Lockheed reveals

The United States Navy is scrambling to retrieve the F-35, its most advanced fighter jet, which crashed in the depths of the South China Sea.

According to American news network CNN, this race to reclaim the $100 million warplane is a highly complex operation that experts say will be closely monitored by Beijing.

The F-35C, the newest jet in the US Navy fleet, crash-landed on the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson during routine operations on Monday.

At least seven people were injured in a US F-35 jet crash on the deck of the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier in the South China Sea, the Navy said. The US Pacific Fleet said that the pilot of a US F-35 jet was conducting routine flight operations when the crash happened.&nbsp;

But he was safely ejected and was recovered by a military helicopter, and he is in stable condition.

The cause of what the statement called an "inflight mishap" is under probe, CNN reported.The crash is the first for an F-35C, a single-engine stealth fighter, designed for operations off aircraft carriers.&nbsp;

Some versions of the F-35 are also flown by US allies and partners, including Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and Australia.&nbsp;

Monday's crash in the South China Sea was the second involving an F-35 this year. Earlier this month, the pilot of a South Korean F-35 made an emergency "belly landing" at an airbase on Tuesday after its landing gear malfunctioned due to electronic issues, according to the South Korean Air Force.

In previous years, F-35s have been involved in at least eight other incidents, CNN reported, citing records kept by the crowd-sourced website.

The United States Navy is scrambling to retrieve the F-35, its most advanced fighter jet, which crashed in the depths of the South China Sea. According to American news network CNN, this race to reclaim the $100 million warplane is a highly complex operation that experts say will be closely monitored by Beijing.

The United States Navy is scrambling to retrieve the F-35, its most advanced fighter jet, which crashed in the depths of the South China Sea. According to American news network CNN, this race to reclaim the $100 million warplane is a highly complex operation that experts say will be closely monitored by Beijing. The F-35C, the newest jet in the US Navy fleet, crash-landed on the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson during routine operations on Monday. At least seven people were injured in a US F-35 jet crash on the deck of the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier in the South China Sea, the Navy said. The US Pacific Fleet said that the pilot of a US F-35 jet was conducting routine flight operations when the crash happened. But he was safely ejected and was recovered by a military helicopter, and he is in stable condition. The cause of what the statement called an "inflight mishap" is under probe, CNN reported.The crash is the first for an F-35C, a single-engine stealth fighter, designed for operations off aircraft carriers. Some versions of the F-35 are also flown by US allies and partners, including Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Monday's crash in the South China Sea was the second involving an F-35 this year. Earlier this month, the pilot of a South Korean F-35 made an emergency "belly landing" at an airbase on Tuesday after its landing gear malfunctioned due to electronic issues, according to the South Korean Air Force. In previous years, F-35s have been involved in at least eight other incidents, CNN reported, citing records kept by the crowd-sourced website.

US races to retrieve crashed F-35 before China can seize 'its most advanced' jet

Seven US sailors were injured in a Navy F-35C fighter accident on an aircraft carrier in the South China Sea on Monday (January 24), the Navy informed.&nbsp;

As released in a statement, the Navy stated that an F-35C Lightning II, which is assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, had a "landing mishap" on the deck.&nbsp;

The statement noted that the incident happened while USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) was conducting routine flight operations in the South China Sea on January 24.&nbsp;

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The US Pacific Fleet said that pilot is in stable condition after he ejected safely from the aircraft. He was recovered with the help of a US military helicopter.&nbsp;

"There were seven total Sailors injured; three Sailors required MEDEVAC to a medical treatment facility in Manila, Philippines, and four were treated by on-board medical personnel," a part of the statement read.&nbsp;

"All three MEDEVACs are assessed as stable. Of the four Sailors treated by on-board medical, three have been released," it added.&nbsp;

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So far, no details were provided on the cause of the incident or the actual condition of the aircraft.&nbsp;

The Pacific Fleet also said that the said the incident was under investigation.&nbsp;

Important to note that the Vinson and another US carrier, the USS Abraham Lincoln, and their strike groups began drills Sunday in the South China Sea, following exercises with a Japanese naval ship in the Philippine Sea last week.&nbsp;

Seven US sailors were injured in a Navy F-35C fighter accident on an aircraft carrier in the South China Sea on Monday (January 24), the Navy informed. As released in a statement, the Navy stated that an F-35C Lightning II, which is assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, had a "landing mishap" on the deck.

Seven US sailors were injured in a Navy F-35C fighter accident on an aircraft carrier in the South China Sea on Monday (January 24), the Navy informed. As released in a statement, the Navy stated that an F-35C Lightning II, which is assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, had a "landing mishap" on the deck. The statement noted that the incident happened while USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) was conducting routine flight operations in the South China Sea on January 24. ALSO READ | Russia planning 'lightning war that could take out Kyiv': UK PM Boris Johnson The US Pacific Fleet said that pilot is in stable condition after he ejected safely from the aircraft. He was recovered with the help of a US military helicopter. "There were seven total Sailors injured; three Sailors required MEDEVAC to a medical treatment facility in Manila, Philippines, and four were treated by on-board medical personnel," a part of the statement read. "All three MEDEVACs are assessed as stable. Of the four Sailors treated by on-board medical, three have been released," it added. IN PICS | Russia's 'checkmate': Why the Orion combat drone is a gamechanger So far, no details were provided on the cause of the incident or the actual condition of the aircraft. The Pacific Fleet also said that the said the incident was under investigation. Important to note that the Vinson and another US carrier, the USS Abraham Lincoln, and their strike groups began drills Sunday in the South China Sea, following exercises with a Japanese naval ship in the Philippine Sea last week.

Seven injured in US fighter jet landing mishap in South China Sea, Navy pilot ejects safely

After reports claimed UAE was mulling suspending discussion on buying F-35 fighter jets from the US, US secretary of state State Antony Blinken said the US government was ready to sell the jets.

Blinken said "we remain prepared to move forward" during his visit to&nbsp;Malaysia, while insisting that the US wanted to make sure that "our commitment to Israel's qualitative military edge is assured".

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The $23 billion arms deal reportedly included 50 F-35 jets and 18 MQ-9B drones which was pushed by the former Trump&nbsp;administration.

After the Biden administration took over in January, the deal slowed after reports claimed that Israel objected to the deal. UAE had last year recognised Israel as it started diplomatic relations with the country.

Also, reports claimed UAE's growing relations with China had led to concerns in the Biden administration as&nbsp;threat of Chinese espionage loomed over the deal.

Democratic Party lawmakers had also expressed reservations over UAE's involvement in Saudi Arabia's offensive in Yemen.

Reports claimed earlier that UAE had informed US officials that it was suspending discussions to acquire the state of the art F-35 jets which is known for its stealth capabilities and advanced avionics.

(With inputs from Agencies)

After reports claimed UAE was mulling suspending discussion on buying F-35 fighter jets from the US, US secretary of state State Antony Blinken said the US government was ready to sell the jets.

After reports claimed UAE was mulling suspending discussion on buying F-35 fighter jets from the US, US secretary of state State Antony Blinken said the US government was ready to sell the jets. Blinken said "we remain prepared to move forward" during his visit to Malaysia, while insisting that the US wanted to make sure that "our commitment to Israel's qualitative military edge is assured". Also Read | UAE mulling to scrap talks on 50 F-35 fighter jets deal with US: Report The $23 billion arms deal reportedly included 50 F-35 jets and 18 MQ-9B drones which was pushed by the former Trump administration. After the Biden administration took over in January, the deal slowed after reports claimed that Israel objected to the deal. UAE had last year recognised Israel as it started diplomatic relations with the country. Also, reports claimed UAE's growing relations with China had led to concerns in the Biden administration as threat of Chinese espionage loomed over the deal. Democratic Party lawmakers had also expressed reservations over UAE's involvement in Saudi Arabia's offensive in Yemen. Reports claimed earlier that UAE had informed US officials that it was suspending discussions to acquire the state of the art F-35 jets which is known for its stealth capabilities and advanced avionics. (With inputs from Agencies)

We remain prepared to move forward, says Blinken on F-35 fighter jet deal with UAE

United Arab Emirates (UAE) is mulling to suspend discussions over the procurement of 50 F-35 fighter jets that are part of the $23 billion arms deal with the US, according to media reports.

An unnamed official from UAE told Reuters that the US has been apprised of the middle eastern country’s concern over technical issues such as cost-benefit analysis and restrictive end-user agreement.

“Technical requirements, sovereign operational restrictions, and cost/benefit analysis led to the re-assessment,” the UAE official said.

The UAE had signed an agreement to purchase 50 5th generation fighter jets and up to 18 armed drones, and other advanced munitions.

“The US remains the UAE’s preferred provider for advanced defence requirements and discussions for the F-35 may be re-opened in the future,” the official said, adding there were discussions to “address mutual defence security conditions for the acquisition.”

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However, US State secretary Anthony Blinken on Wednesday said that America is prepared to move forward with the sale of the fighter jets and drones to the its ally.

Speaking at a news conference in Kuala Lumpur, Blinken said Washington had to conduct some reviews.

"We've wanted to make sure, for example, that our commitment to Israel`s qualitative military edge is assured, so we wanted to make sure that we could do a thorough review of any technologies that are sold or transferred to other partners in the region, including the UAE," Blinken said.

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"But I think we continue to be prepared to move forward if the UAE continues to want to pursue both of these," he said.

The sale of 50 F-35 jets comes as a part of a $23 billion arms deal that the US and the UAE reached in the last days of Trump’s administration. The agreement also involves a sale of 18 MQ-9B Reaper attack drones, as well as other high-tech munitions.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Arab Emirates (UAE) is mulling to suspend discussions over the procurement of 50 F-35 fighter jets that are part of the $23 billion arms deal with the US, according to media reports.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) is mulling to suspend discussions over the procurement of 50 F-35 fighter jets that are part of the $23 billion arms deal with the US, according to media reports. An unnamed official from UAE told Reuters that the US has been apprised of the middle eastern country’s concern over technical issues such as cost-benefit analysis and restrictive end-user agreement. “Technical requirements, sovereign operational restrictions, and cost/benefit analysis led to the re-assessment,” the UAE official said. The UAE had signed an agreement to purchase 50 5th generation fighter jets and up to 18 armed drones, and other advanced munitions. “The US remains the UAE’s preferred provider for advanced defence requirements and discussions for the F-35 may be re-opened in the future,” the official said, adding there were discussions to “address mutual defence security conditions for the acquisition.” Also read | India in a tough neighbourhood, will help secure its borders, says Biden’s envoy pick Garcetti However, US State secretary Anthony Blinken on Wednesday said that America is prepared to move forward with the sale of the fighter jets and drones to the its ally. Speaking at a news conference in Kuala Lumpur, Blinken said Washington had to conduct some reviews. "We've wanted to make sure, for example, that our commitment to Israel`s qualitative military edge is assured, so we wanted to make sure that we could do a thorough review of any technologies that are sold or transferred to other partners in the region, including the UAE," Blinken said. Also read | US women urge Supreme Court to repeal topless sunbathing ban as it permits discrimination "But I think we continue to be prepared to move forward if the UAE continues to want to pursue both of these," he said. The sale of 50 F-35 jets comes as a part of a $23 billion arms deal that the US and the UAE reached in the last days of Trump’s administration. The agreement also involves a sale of 18 MQ-9B Reaper attack drones, as well as other high-tech munitions. (With inputs from agencies)

UAE mulling to scrap talks on 50 F-35 fighter jets deal with US: Report

A British F-35 aircraft, one of the newest stealth fighter jets in UK military costing 100 million pounds, crashed into Mediterranean Sea during a routine exercise, the Ministry of Dence said on Wednesday.

In a tweet, the ministry informed that the pilot from HMS Queen Elizabeth ejected during routine flying operations in the Mediterranean.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A British F35 pilot from HMS Queen Elizabeth ejected during routine flying operations in the Mediterranean this morning. 
 
The pilot has been safely returned to the ship and an investigation has begun, so it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.
— Ministry of Defence Press Office (@DefenceHQPress) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceHQPress/status/1460987353410027530?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said the jet came down soon after take-off.

“We are pleased the pilot is safe and well and back on board,” BBC quoted Wallace as saying.

Wallace further said that operational and training flights onboard HMS Queen Elizabeth are continuing despite the incident.

UK operates the F-35B, a single-engine, short-take-off vertical landing variant of the US stealth jet. It was developed by US firm Lockheed Martin. The aircraft are Britain's most advanced and expensive jets.

There are eight UK F-35Bs on the carrier and 10 from the US Marine Corps.

They have conducted around 2,000 take-off and landings on board HMS Queen Elizabeth without any major incident over the past six months.

The F-35 jet contains highly sensitive technology and data. It is hard to detect on radar and is one of the most expensive defence projects undertaken by the American military.

According to CNN, Britain plans to acquire 138 more F-35 jets, making it the third-largest operator of the Lockheed-Martin produced jets, behind the United States and&nbsp;Japan.

This is the first time a UK F-35 has crashed, but CNN reports that both the US and Japan have lost F-35s to accidents.

(With reports from agencies)

A British F-35 aircraft, one of the newest stealth fighter jets in UK military costing 100 million pounds, crashed into Mediterranean Sea during a routine exercise, the Ministry of Dence said on Wednesday.

A British F-35 aircraft, one of the newest stealth fighter jets in UK military costing 100 million pounds, crashed into Mediterranean Sea during a routine exercise, the Ministry of Dence said on Wednesday. In a tweet, the ministry informed that the pilot from HMS Queen Elizabeth ejected during routine flying operations in the Mediterranean. A British F35 pilot from HMS Queen Elizabeth ejected during routine flying operations in the Mediterranean this morning. The pilot has been safely returned to the ship and an investigation has begun, so it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time. — Ministry of Defence Press Office (@DefenceHQPress) November 17, 2021 × Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said the jet came down soon after take-off. “We are pleased the pilot is safe and well and back on board,” BBC quoted Wallace as saying. Wallace further said that operational and training flights onboard HMS Queen Elizabeth are continuing despite the incident. UK operates the F-35B, a single-engine, short-take-off vertical landing variant of the US stealth jet. It was developed by US firm Lockheed Martin. The aircraft are Britain's most advanced and expensive jets. There are eight UK F-35Bs on the carrier and 10 from the US Marine Corps. They have conducted around 2,000 take-off and landings on board HMS Queen Elizabeth without any major incident over the past six months. The F-35 jet contains highly sensitive technology and data. It is hard to detect on radar and is one of the most expensive defence projects undertaken by the American military. According to CNN, Britain plans to acquire 138 more F-35 jets, making it the third-largest operator of the Lockheed-Martin produced jets, behind the United States and Japan. This is the first time a UK F-35 has crashed, but CNN reports that both the US and Japan have lost F-35s to accidents. (With reports from agencies)

British F-35 stealth fight jet crashes into Mediterranean, probe ordered

A US sale of advanced F-35 warplanes to Qatar could be possible despite Israel's objections to such a deal -- due to the Gulf state's links to Iran and Palestinian Hamas.

An Israeli cabinet minister on Sunday said, "This is a supposition that we must take into account," he said, arguing that the US administration "ultimately looks out for American interests," especially in the face of rival stealth jets on offer from Russia and China.

It was earlier reported that gas-rich Qatar had submitted a formal request to buy the F-35, a Lockheed Martin plane that has so far been supplied only to Israel in the region.&nbsp;

Israel, with which Washington consults on such sales, said it would be opposed.

Reuters also reported that should such a sale go ahead, Israel would demand "appropriate compensation" - an apparent reference to US defence assistance.

US officials have been open to selling the F-35 to the United Arab Emirates after it and Bahrain normalised relations with Israel on September 15.

Successive US administrations have since sought to preserve Israeli military superiority in the region.

There has been speculation in Israeli media that the Trump administration could hold out the F-35 as an inducement for Qatar to normalise ties with Israel.

(with inputs)

A US sale of advanced F-35 warplanes to Qatar could be possible despite Israel's objections to such a deal -- due to the Gulf state's links to Iran and Palestinian Hamas.

A US sale of advanced F-35 warplanes to Qatar could be possible despite Israel's objections to such a deal -- due to the Gulf state's links to Iran and Palestinian Hamas. An Israeli cabinet minister on Sunday said, "This is a supposition that we must take into account," he said, arguing that the US administration "ultimately looks out for American interests," especially in the face of rival stealth jets on offer from Russia and China. It was earlier reported that gas-rich Qatar had submitted a formal request to buy the F-35, a Lockheed Martin plane that has so far been supplied only to Israel in the region. Israel, with which Washington consults on such sales, said it would be opposed. Reuters also reported that should such a sale go ahead, Israel would demand "appropriate compensation" - an apparent reference to US defence assistance. US officials have been open to selling the F-35 to the United Arab Emirates after it and Bahrain normalised relations with Israel on September 15. Successive US administrations have since sought to preserve Israeli military superiority in the region. There has been speculation in Israeli media that the Trump administration could hold out the F-35 as an inducement for Qatar to normalise ties with Israel. (with inputs)

Qatar might get F-35s despite Israel's objections

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