The entire fleet of F-35 stealth jets is to be checked for a fault following a crash in the US last month.<\/span><\/p>\n The post-crash investigation carried out after a plane came down in South Carolina<\/a><\/strong><\/span>, identified a faulty fuel tube.<\/span><\/p>\n As a result, the global fleet is on an “operational pause”.<\/span><\/p>\n https:\/\/twitter.com\/SamRichardsonAM\/status\/1045716767023263744<\/p>\n Each \u00a3150m aircraft must now be checked before being cleared to fly again – with each check taking up to six hours.<\/span><\/p>\n It is a hugely embarrassing turn of events for the programme and has been described to Sky News by a senior defence industry source as a “cock-up of epic proportions”.<\/span><\/p>\n In a statement, F-35 programme spokesman Joe DellaVedova said the checks should be complete by the end of the week, adding: “If suspect fuel tubes are installed, the part will be removed and replaced.<\/span><\/p>\n “If known good fuel tubes are already installed, then those aircraft will be returned to flight status.<\/span><\/p>\n “Inspections are expected to be completed within the next 24 to 48 hours.”<\/span><\/p>\n Depending on how many aircraft are affected, the future progress of the programme – which is already the most expensive in history – could be in jeopardy.<\/span><\/p>\n The programme is led by the Pentagon but Britain is its only tier, one partner.<\/span><\/p>\n