A stealth fighter jet F-35B of the British Royal Navy is still on the ground at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala, over 72 hours after it was forced to land there on Sunday, June 14.
#WATCH | Kerala: An F-35 fighter jet of the UK Navy made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport due to low fuel. The aircraft is still there.
(Visuals from Thiruvananthapuram Airport) pic.twitter.com/2M0EsBJcOX
— ANI (@ANI) June 15, 2025
The aircraft, belonging to the HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group in the Indo-Pacific, had to divert from its carrier because of low fuel and rough sea conditions that rendered a safe return landing impossible.
What Happened?
The F-35B, which can perform short take-offs and vertical landings (STOVL), was conducting standard operations after joint naval drills with the Indian Navy when it encountered an issue in the air. The Indian Air Force (IAF) assisted in managing the jet’s diversion and landing, collaborating with airport officials to ensure a smooth emergency landing. The airport in Thiruvananthapuram is one of the specified emergency diversion fields for aircraft based on carriers.
Soon after landing, the aircraft encountered a technical issue allegedly related to its hydraulic system. The next day, a Royal Navy MJS-101 helicopter arrived to return the pilot to the Prince of Wales, while technicians were transported in to assess and fix the aircraft. Early evaluations indicated that the jet could be ready for take-off by Tuesday; however, persistent technical problems have subsequently postponed its return to sea-based operations.
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has positioned armed officers near the aircraft, located at Bay 4 of the airport, to guarantee its protection during the prolonged stay. The arrival of the jet — regarded as one of the most sophisticated and costly fighter planes globally — has attracted considerable interest.
About The F-35B
The F-35B is a type of fifth-generation fighter jet developed by Lockheed Martin and employed by various allied countries. Its STOVL feature enables operation from aircraft carriers without the need for catapults or arrestor wires, making it vital for naval strike operations. Although it features advanced technology, the F-35 programme has faced significant expenses and ongoing technical difficulties, particularly regarding the vertical lift systems of the B variant.
Currently, there is no formal schedule for the jet’s takeoff. Indian and British defense teams continue to work closely together to address the technical problems and guarantee the aircraft’s secure return to the carrier.
