Officials at Nellis AFB, Nev., announced Thursday that search and rescue teams have found conclusive evidence that a pilot whose F-16 crashed Tuesday in the Nevada desert did not survive the mishap. “Based on evidence recovered from the crash site, and after extensive aerial and ground search efforts, we know that the pilot did not eject from the aircraft prior to impact,” said Brig. Gen. T.J. O’Shaughnessy, commander of Nellis’ 57th Wing. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the pilot’s immediate family, Air Force family, and friends during this difficult time.” The F-16 was participating in a combat training mission from Nellis when it went down on federal property approximately 20 miles west of Caliente, Nev. Nellis officials are withholding the pilot’s name and unit until 24 hours after notification of the next of kin. O’Shaughnessy said the accident is under investigation. Additional details will be released as they become available. (See also our earlier coverage.)
Anduril and General Atomics will develop their Collaborative Combat Aircraft for the Air Force, beating out Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman, the service announced on April 24. But any of the non-selected companies can compete to actually manufacture the eventual design, the Air Force said.