British F-35B Fighter Jet Emergency Landing In Kerala: UK Sends Engineering Team For Repairs
A British F-35B Lightning II fighter jet that made an unexpected emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport last month is now set to undergo technical evaluation and potential repairs, as a team of UK specialists has landed in Kerala to assess the aircraft.
The jet, part of the UK's Carrier Strike Group aboard HMS Prince of Wales, was forced to divert and land on June 14 after reportedly running low on fuel during a sortie over the Indian Ocean. The Indian Air Force (IAF), confirming its involvement, stated that such diversions are “normal occurrences” and emphasized that the landing was facilitated promptly to ensure flight safety.
“A UK engineering team has deployed to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport to assess and repair the UK F-35B aircraft, which landed following an emergency diversion,” said a spokesperson from the British High Commission. “The UK has accepted the offer of a space in the Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility, and discussions are underway to finalize arrangements with the relevant authorities.”
The engineering team arrived aboard a British Royal Air Force Airbus A400M Atlas transport aircraft and brought with them specialized equipment essential for repairing or, if necessary, dismantling the state-of-the-art fighter jet. Once assessments are complete, the aircraft may either be restored for flight or prepared for airlifting back to the UK.
The High Commission also expressed deep appreciation for the cooperation extended by Indian authorities. “The UK remains very grateful for the continued support and collaboration of the Indian authorities and airport teams,” the spokesperson added.
The F-35B, a fifth-generation stealth fighter known for its cutting-edge short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) capabilities, is designed to operate from aircraft carriers without the need for traditional catapult systems. While the jet is typically capable of recovering onto its carrier, preliminary reports suggest that inclement weather near HMS Prince of Wales may have ruled out a safe landing, prompting the emergency diversion.
Sources had earlier indicated that a 40-member British technical team was expected to arrive in India by July 5 to initiate the repair process, and potentially prepare the aircraft for dismantling and airlift if a return flight isn’t feasible.
This rare diversion has drawn interest from aviation and defense observers, not only due to the high-profile nature of the aircraft but also because of the collaboration it has fostered between Indian and British defense and aviation agencies.
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