An F-35 fighter jet crashed at Eielson Air Force Base on Tuesday after the pilot successfully ejected from the aircraft. The incident occurred at approximately 12:49 p.m. local time, and the cause of the crash is currently under investigation, as stated by base commander Col. Paul Townsend.

The pilot, whose identity has not been released, was transported to Bassett Army Hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition. Eyewitnesses captured dramatic video footage of the incident, showing the F-35 spiraling downwards before exploding upon impact. An Air Force spokesperson confirmed the video's authenticity to CBS News.

Col. Townsend emphasized the importance of personnel safety in a statement: "Our people are our most important resource, and we are committed to ensuring their safety and security. I can assure you the United States Air Force will conduct a thorough investigation in hopes of minimizing the chances of such occurrences from happening again."

The Air Force's F-35 fighter jets are part of a modernization effort to replace its aging fleet and are also utilized by the Navy and the Marines. The cost of each F-35 aircraft is approximately $100 million.

This incident follows a similar event last year, where a Marine Corps F-35 went missing and crashed after the pilot ejected, with investigations indicating pilot error as the cause. (ILKHA)