New Delhi [India], July 22 (ANI): The United Kingdom on Tuesday expressed gratitude to Indian authorities for their support during the month-long repair and recovery of a UK F-35B fighter jet that made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on June 14.
In an official statement, a British High Commission spokesperson said, “A UK F-35B aircraft, which landed following an emergency diversion on June 14, departed today from Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. A UK engineering team, deployed since July 6, completed the repairs and safety checks, allowing the aircraft to resume active service.”
The spokesperson added, “The UK remains very grateful for the support and collaboration of the Indian authorities and airport teams throughout the repair and recovery process. We look forward to continuing to strengthen our defence partnership with India.”
The F-35B was unable to return to its home ship, the HMS Prince of Wales, due to adverse weather and diverted to Thiruvananthapuram for a safe emergency landing. While on the ground, the aircraft developed a hydraulic fault, delaying its return to the UK Carrier Strike Group.
Engineers aboard the HMS Prince of Wales initially assessed the fighter but determined that a UK-based engineering team with specialized equipment was required for full repairs. The UK accepted India’s offer to house the aircraft at a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, ensuring minimal disruption to airport operations until the engineering team arrived.
The British Navy’s F-35 fighter jet finally departed Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on Tuesday, more than a month after the emergency landing. The Indian Air Force assisted throughout the process, providing refueling and operational support.
The F-35B, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, is a highly advanced stealth fighter prized for its short takeoff and vertical landing capabilities. The aircraft, which is part of the British Navy’s Carrier Strike Group, was on a routine sortie when it encountered a mechanical snag and diverted to India.
The High Commission spokesperson underscored the UK’s intent to build on this cooperation, saying, “We look forward to continuing to strengthen our defence partnership with India.” (ANI)
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