"British F-35 Crash: Investigation Points to Air Intake Blank Failure"
An investigation into the crash of a British Royal Navy F-35B in November 2021 revealed that a crucial air intake blank was lodged in the engine, causing a significant reduction in power and resulting in the crash. The investigation highlighted numerous shortcomings in the operation of the F-35, including personnel security, equipment handling, and resource management. The report recommended 46 modifications and raised concerns about the readiness of Britain's only frontline F-35 squadron. The F-35 has been plagued by approximately 800 performance defects, including issues with software, avionics systems, fuel systems, and weapon systems. Several countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, have reported significant defects in the aircraft.