A team of experts from the United Kingdom is en route to Kerala, India, to evaluate the condition of a grounded F-35B fighter jet. The aircraft, belonging to the British Royal Navy, has been stuck at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport since June 14, 2025, following an emergency landing.
The grounding occurred after the F-35B, which was part of the HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group, experienced difficulties while conducting joint exercises with the Indian armed forces off the Kerala coast. Adverse weather conditions and low fuel levels reportedly forced the pilot to make an unscheduled landing at Thiruvananthapuram. While the Indian Air Force provided assistance for a safe landing, a hydraulic issue was discovered during pre-flight checks, preventing the aircraft from taking off. Initial attempts by a small Royal Navy team to fix the problem proved unsuccessful.
The team arriving from the UK consists of approximately 25 aviation engineers. Some reports indicate the team may comprise of 40 members including support from the U.S. where the manufacturer Lockheed Martin is based. Their primary task is to assess the extent of the damage and determine the best course of action. This could involve on-site repairs or dismantling the aircraft for transport back to the UK.
Several factors complicate the situation. The F-35B is a highly advanced stealth fighter, and concerns exist about exposing its sensitive technology. India offered access to its maintenance and repair facilities, but British officials reportedly declined due to these concerns. Dismantling the aircraft is also a delicate operation, requiring specialized tools and procedures to prevent any compromise of its stealth capabilities.
The possibility of airlifting the F-35B using a C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft is being explored. However, the aircraft's wingspan may necessitate partial disassembly before it can fit inside the C-17. This would involve removing the wings and draining fuel and other fluids to reduce weight and prevent leaks.
The incident has garnered significant attention, with social media users creating memes and jokes about the stranded fighter jet. The Kerala Tourism department even joined in, posting a humorous message suggesting the F-35B was enjoying its extended stay in "God's Own Country".
The arrival of the UK team marks a crucial step in resolving the situation. Their assessment will determine the fate of the grounded F-35B and potentially impact future collaborations between the UK and India in the defense sector. The incident has highlighted the complexities of maintaining advanced military equipment and the importance of international cooperation in addressing unforeseen challenges.
