Grounded British F-35B fighter jet departs Thiruvananthapuram after repairs
The UK’s F-35B fighter jet, which was grounded at Thiruvananthapuram Airport following adverse weather conditions, has now departed for the UK after undergoing essential repairs and rigorous safety checks. The aircraft was originally en route to HMS Prince of Wales before being diverted.
While stationed on the ground, the jet developed an engineering issue that further delayed its return to the Carrier Strike Group. Engineers from HMS Prince of Wales assessed the situation and determined that additional support from a UK-based engineering team was required.
A British High Commission spokesperson confirmed in a press release that the F-35B aircraft successfully departed today. The UK engineering team, deployed on July 6, completed all necessary repairs and safety inspections, enabling the jet to resume active service.
“The UK remains deeply grateful for the support and collaboration of Indian authorities and airport teams throughout the repair and recovery process. We look forward to strengthening our defence partnership with India,” the spokesperson added.
This successful departure marks the culmination of a coordinated effort between UK and Indian teams to restore the aircraft to operational readiness.
