F-35 Pilot Ejects, KC-130J Crew of 8 Safe After Bellying Into Open Field

There are nine people, all serving in the US Marine Corps, that appear to be incredibly lucky to be alive this day.

A USMC F-35B tanking off another USMC KC-130J were involved in a midair collision that ultimately downed both birds. The F-35B pilot ejected near the Salton Sea and the aircraft descended to impact and destruction... while the KC-130J wound up bellying in, in an open field despite the fact that it was severely damaged and at least two engine were severely compromised and God only knows what else.

The Southern California accident took place at approximately 1600 and the KC-130J came down near unpopulated territory near the city of Thermal. The 130J crew walked away from the whole thing... while the F-35B pilot required some hospitalization and treatment.

The tanker was operating under the callsign Raider 50. The first emergency call to LA Center stated, "LA Center LA Center, RAIDER 50 declaring an emergency, midair collision with BOLT 93. We have two engines out, we're leaking fuel, and likely on fire, and in emergency descent at this time. RAIDER 50."

Shortly thereafter the 130J crew adds that, "We declare an emergency. We still have partial control of the aircraft. Two engines out. We are aiming towards uh..." before the audio is lost.

At about the same time, a civil aircraft reported the sighting of a smoke plume, apparently referencing the impact of the F-35B.

No credible details have emerged to explain what happened though the right wing of the 130J shows serious damage and the F-35B was apparently so unflyable that the pilot ejected.

The official cause of the crash is currently under investigation. Updates will be provided as information becomes available.

FMI: www.marines.mil