A specialized team comprising over 30 personnel from the British Royal Navy is set to arrive in Kerala soon to address the technical issues facing a grounded F-35B Lightning II stealth fighter jet. The aircraft, which has been stranded at Thiruvananthapuram Airport for more than a week, requires immediate attention, according to sources.
The F-35B, a state-of-the-art fifth-generation fighter jet, is part of the HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group, which is currently deployed in the Indo-Pacific region. The aircraft made an emergency landing on June 14 after depleting its fuel reserves during joint maritime drills with the Indian Navy.
Initially, it was anticipated that the jet would refuel and be back in the air without significant delay. However, a subsequent technical malfunction has thwarted those plans, preventing the aircraft from taking off. Despite efforts from a previously dispatched team, which included a Royal Navy helicopter and a replacement pilot, the issue could not be resolved.
The incoming team will assess whether the aircraft needs to be relocated to a hangar for more comprehensive diagnostics. Although Air India had previously offered hangar space, the Royal Navy declined, citing concerns about the safety of the aircraft’s classified technologies.
Notably, the F-35B’s unique capabilities include Short Take-Off and Vertical Landing (STOVL), allowing it to operate from both aircraft carriers and short airstrips. However, the prolonged inactivity of the aircraft has raised questions, prompting confusion among British defense officials regarding the nature of the malfunction.
The travel schedule for the new technical team is being finalized, and the UK Navy is maintaining close coordination with Indian authorities throughout the repair efforts. As the situation develops, both nations are focused on getting the advanced fighter jet back into operational status.
