Grounded F-35B Fighter Jet of British Origin Remains Stationary in Kerala for 72 Hours
A British Royal Navy F-35B stealth fighter jet, known for its radar-evading capabilities and sensor fusion technology, is currently stranded at Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. This situation unfolded seven days ago when the fighter jet, en route to the UK's HMS Prince of Wales aircraft carrier in the Indo-Pacific, encountered turbulent weather and technical snags, forcing an emergency landing on June 14, 2025.
It appears the aircraft hit a rough patch during takeoff, leading the pilot to request a diversion to Thiruvananthapuram Airport. Upon landing, a hydraulic failure was identified, grounding the cutting-edge fighter for several days.
Indian authorities and the Air Force have been lending a helping hand throughout this episode. As the jet landed during the night, a two-man repair and recovery crew from the Royal Navy arrived via helicopter from the carrier, followed by six additional technicians the next day. Indian Air Force and airport authorities have been providing necessary support and security for the aircraft.
The incident's repercussions extend to the entire HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group, temporarily diminishing their full operational capability as the grounded F-35B is a key fifth-generation stealth fighter for air superiority and strike missions. The timeline for the jet's recovery and repair remains uncertain, potentially delaying the strike group's readiness for further deployment.
It's a complex predicament for the UK's F-35B Lightning II task force, which is no ordinary aircraft—it's part of the most expensive and technologically sophisticated fighter jet program in history. Designed by Lockheed Martin, the F-35 program boasts multiple international partners and service branches, including the British Royal Navy.
In short, the stealth jet's predicament could put a dent in the HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group's operational readiness as the fighter awaits repair after an emergency landing during turbulent weather.
The aerospace industry is indirectly affected due to the grounded F-35B stealth fighter jet, a key asset in the finance sector's advanced defense systems. The repair process, with the involvement of Indian authorities, further underlines the international collaboration in the finance and aerospace sectors.
