A British F-35B stealth fighter jet made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram airport on Sunday morning. The jet was part of the UK’s HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group, which had just finished a joint military exercise with the Indian Navy. The fighter had to land because it was running low on fuel and faced bad weather.
Still Grounded After Two Days
More than 48 hours after landing, the jet is still on the ground. Reports suggest a possible mechanical issue is preventing it from taking off. A technical team from the UK Royal Navy has now arrived in Thiruvananthapuram to inspect and fix the aircraft so it can return to the aircraft carrier.
Rare Situation for a High-End Fighter
It is rare for a foreign stealth jet like the F-35B to remain grounded for so long. The F-35 is the world’s costliest and most advanced 5th-generation stealth fighter. The B variant is specially built for short take-offs and vertical landings, which makes it ideal for use on aircraft carriers.
Help From Indian Air Force
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has confirmed it is helping with the situation. The IAF called the diversion a “normal occurrence” and said all necessary assistance is being provided to ensure the safety of the jet.
Possible Weather Problem
Although the exact reason the fighter couldn’t return to its aircraft carrier is not confirmed, bad weather is suspected to have made the landing unsafe near the carrier.
Security and Safety Measures in Place
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has deployed armed guards around the fighter jet for security. They stated on social media that they are actively protecting the aircraft and handling the situation professionally.
About the F-35B
The F-35 Lightning II, made by Lockheed Martin, is a family of advanced stealth fighter jets. It has three main types, and the F-35B is capable of landing vertically. Its top features include stealth technology and high-tech sensors. Countries like Israel are using F-35s in military operations.
US Offer to India
Earlier this year, former US President Donald Trump had said that America is willing to sell F-35 fighter jets to India. This marked a change in earlier US rules that restricted such deals with foreign countries.
Ongoing UK Naval Mission
The HMS Prince of Wales and its group, which includes fighter jets, drones, helicopters, warships, and a nuclear submarine, is currently on an eight-month deployment in the Indo-Pacific region, close to Indian waters.
