A British Royal Navy F‑35B Lightning II fighter jet, among the world’s most advanced stealth aircraft, has been stranded at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport since June 14 after making an emergency landing due to severe weather, fuel shortage, and hydraulic failure during a mission from HMS Prince of Wales in the Arabian Sea.
Despite initial repair efforts, the critical hydraulic issue remains unresolved, leaving the $100 million fifth-generation jet grounded on the tarmac. A 40-member UK engineering team along with a specialized towing vehicle is now en route to Kerala to attempt repairs and move the aircraft to the airport’s MRO hangar.
The jet, parked in Bay 4 for nearly three weeks, has prompted Kerala airport authorities to begin charging parking fees. Offers from Air India to house the aircraft inside a hangar were reportedly declined by the Royal Navy due to concerns over exposing sensitive stealth and electronic systems.
Meanwhile, CISF and Indian military personnel have been deployed for 24/7 high-level security around the aircraft. If on-site repairs fail, officials say the jet may be dismantled and airlifted back to the UK using a heavy military transport aircraft such as the C-17 Globemaster.
This is the first-ever instance of a Royal Navy F‑35B being stranded abroad, highlighting both diplomatic sensitivity and logistical challenges of overseas deployment of cutting-edge military hardware. The UK has extended gratitude to Indian agencies including the IAF, Navy, CISF, and airport staff for their swift coordination and ongoing support.
