The U.S. Department of Defense has grounded all F-35 jets again after a string of accidents, including the latest in which one of the radar-evading aircraft caught fire as it was preparing to take off on June 23.
The temporary grounding has triggered concerns in South Korea over a possible delay in the delivery of the warplanes. Seoul plans to purchase 40 F-35 jets for deployment from 2018-21.
Seoul has requested that the U.S. government provide an explanation on the latest accident.
“We have asked the U.S. to explain what exactly happened. For now, we are just waiting for the results of the investigation into the cause of the latest accident,” said Baek Youn-hyeong, spokesperson of the Defense Acquisition Program Administration.
It’s the eighth time the entire F-35 fleet has been grounded. On June 13, an engine oil leak also led the U.S. military to inspect 104 F-35 jets that have been produced since 2006.
Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the F-35, said it is working closely with the ongoing investigation, arguing that safety is its top priority. The U.S. government’s F-35 Joint Program Office vowed to thoroughly look into the recent accident.
"... It is only in this way that we can hope to arrive at truth, and fulfill the great responsibility which we hold to God and our country. Should I keep back my opinions at such a time, through fear of giving offense, I should consider myself as guilty of treason towards my country, and of an act of disloyalty toward the Majesty of Heaven, which I revere above all earthly kings."....I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!"
Sunday, July 6, 2014
SOUTH KOREA ORDERS OF 40 F35A PUT ON HOLD AFTER THE RECENT GROUNDING
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