The crash occurred within the Nevada Test and Training Range, a vast restricted area used for military exercises and tactical training. The range spans roughly 5,000 square miles and more than 2.9 million acres, supporting activities such as simulated threat environments and major exercises including Red Flag.
The aircraft was permanently assigned to Nellis Air Force Base, which maintains its own fleet of F-35s in addition to hosting visiting aircraft. The base is overseen by the 57th Wing, which confirmed details of the incident.
In a statement, the 57th Wing said the crash took place north of Las Vegas, about 25 miles northeast of Indian Springs, Nevada, near Creech Air Force Base. The unit added that the incident occurred “within the controlled airspace and restricted federal property of the Nevada Test & Training Range.”
Officials indicated that the crash site was confined to U.S. government property and did not affect surrounding communities. No injuries were reported other than those sustained by the pilot.
“Emergency responders are on-scene and there is no impact to populated areas,” the 57th Wing said. “The pilot is safe and being treated for minor injuries. The safety of our personnel and the community remain our top priority.”
Air Force officials said the cause of the crash has not yet been determined. An investigation is expected to examine the circumstances of the mishap.
Source: Air & Space Forces Magazine.
