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 during flying operations in international waters while the carrier was sailing in the Mediterranean.No other aircraft was involved.
It was operated by the RAF's world-famous 617 Squadron, which was formed in 1943 for the Dambusters raid on German dams.Hostile action is not thought to have been involved, and an investigation is likely to focus on potential technical or human error. The pilot was rescued on a Merlin search and rescue chopper and is safely onboard the aircraft carrier.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence said: "A British F35 pilot from HMS Queen Elizabeth ejected during routine flying operations in the Mediterranean this morning."The pilot has been safely returned to the ship and an investigation has begun, so it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time."