UK sends expert team to Kerala to repair grounded F-35B fighter jet
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New Delhi: A UK F-35B Lightning II fighter jet that made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport nearly three weeks ago is now set to be relocated for repairs, following the arrival of a UK engineering team in India to carry out the intricate task.
According to sources, the team comprises more than a dozen technicians assigned to this critical mission.
Confirming the development, a British High Commission spokesperson said, “A UK engineering team has deployed to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport to assess and repair the UK F-35B aircraft, which landed following an emergency diversion.”
“The UK has accepted the offer of a space in the Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility and are in discussions to finalise arrangements with relevant authorities. In line with standard procedure, the aircraft will be moved following the arrival of UK engineers, who are carrying specialist equipment necessary for the movement and repair process. The UK remains very grateful for the continued support and collaboration of the Indian authorities and airport teams,” it further added.
The jet has remained grounded at the airport since its unscheduled landing, with initial repair efforts proving largely unsuccessful. Sources familiar with the developments indicated that several attempts to restore the aircraft on-site were hampered by the complexity of its systems and the need for proprietary tools.
The fighter, which is part of the UK's Carrier Strike Group aboard HMS Prince of Wales, was forced to land on June 14 after reportedly running low on fuel during a mission over the Indian Ocean.
The issue drew national attention as multiple repair efforts failed to resolve the problem. With the arrival of UK technicians and specialised equipment, progress is now expected.
British officials, however, have stated that no further operational details will be disclosed.
“We will not be providing a running commentary on the timelines or detail of repair and maintenance matters or on private discussions with the Government of India,” the statement read.
(inputs from PTI)