The United States Navy is trying to retrieve its most advanced fighter jet from the depths of the South China Sea, an extremely complex operation that analysts say will be closely monitored by Beijing.
Summary
- The F-35C, a single-engine stealth fighter and the newest jet in the US Navy fleet, crash-landed on the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson during routine operations on Monday, the Navy said.
- Chinese naval and coast guard vessels maintain a constant presence in South China Sea waters.
- JUST WATCHED US submarine hits underwater object in South China Sea Replay More Videos … MUST WATCH US submarine hits underwater object in South China Sea 02:06There has been no official Chinese comment on the crash, with state media reporting it only citing “foreign media.”
- Schuster, a former US Navy captain, said it’s possible China could make a claim for the salvage rights based on its territorial claims in the South China Sea.
- This US Navy recovery effort will mark the third time a country flying the F-35 has tried to pull one from the depths.