British Royal Navy F‑35B Lightning II fighter jet has been stuck at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala since June 14, after it made an emergency landing due to a hydraulic system failure while flying from the UK to Australia.
What Caused the Grounding of the UK’s Stealth Fighter Jet in India?
Officials have not made the exact issue with the F-35 jet public, but sources suggest it could involve a technical malfunction related to its onboard systems. Since the F-35 is a high-tech aircraft that includes stealth capabilities, sensor fusion, and advanced avionics, even minor issues can take days or weeks to inspect and fix.
Technicians from the UK Ministry of Defense and specialists from Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the aircraft, are reportedly in communication to resolve the issue. However, the lack of immediate spare parts and support equipment at the site may be slowing the process.
UK and India’s Naval Ties Grow Stronger Despite Jet Issue
Although the fighter jet is stuck, the situation has not disrupted military cooperation between India and the UK. The Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, along with its fleet, continues to engage with the Indian Navy through drills, crew exchanges, and port visits.
Officials from both countries have expressed confidence that the problem is minor and that the jet will be able to fly soon. The Indian Navy has provided full technical support and security for the aircraft while it remains at the base.
F-35B Jet in the UK Navy’s Strategy
The F-35B is a fifth-generation multirole combat aircraft that is crucial to the UK Navy’s defense strategy. It can take off from short runways and land vertically, making it ideal for operations from aircraft carriers like the HMS Queen Elizabeth.
Advanced radar systems, stealth features, and powerful weapons equip this aircraft, making it one of the most advanced jets in the world. Its presence in India shows the UK’s global military reach and the growing strategic partnership with the Indian Navy.
When Will the UK’s Grounded Fighter Jet Fly Again?
As of now, there is no official timeline for when the jet will take off. The delay is mostly due to technical inspections, safety checks, and coordination with the manufacturer.
Experts believe that once they resolve the issue, the aircraft will rejoin the UK’s Carrier Strike Group, which plans to continue operations in the Indo-Pacific region. The F-35 will leave INS Garuda once authorities certify it as safe to fly again.
Media Attention in Kerala
The arrival of the F-35B stealth fighter in Kochi has created a buzz among aviation enthusiasts and defense watchers in India. Even though civilians cannot access the aircraft, the news has drawn attention to India’s growing role in global defense partnerships.
Some local media reports have questioned whether India has the technical infrastructure to support such advanced foreign aircraft in case of emergencies. However, the Indian Navy has shown that it is capable of providing international-level logistical support.
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