The jet crashed during routine operations from a UK aircraft carrier in the Mediterranean, the MoD says.
Image source, MOD
A British F-35 fighter jet has crashed into the sea during a routine operation in the Mediterranean, the Ministry of Defence has said.
The pilot ejected and has safely returned to the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth and an investigation has begun, the MoD added.
The incident occurred at 10:00 GMT over international waters and no other aircraft were involved.
The MoD said it would be inappropriate to comment during the investigation.
The investigation is likely to focus on potential technical or human error, BBC defence correspondent Jonathan Beale said.
There are eight UK F-35s on the carrier and 12 from the US Marine Corps.
The supersonic fighters, which cost £92m each, are based at RAF Marham in Norfolk.