A UK technical delegation of around 25–40 aviation engineers landed at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on July 6, aboard a Royal Air Force A400M Atlas, to assess and repair the F‑35B Lightning that has been stranded in Kerala since its emergency landing on June 14 . The fifth‑generation fighter—valued at over US $100 million—had to divert from HMS Prince of Wales due to a hydraulic failure and low fuel, and has remained under CISF and British guard at Bay 4.

Following unsuccessful initial repair attempts, the UK team will first determine if the jet can be made airworthy locally. If not, they are prepared to dismantle the aircraft under strict security protocols and air‑lift parts back to the UK, potentially using a heavy transport like the C‑17 . Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force has been providing full logistical support—refueling, moving the jet into an MRO hangar, and ensuring its security—and has reiterated its commitment to assisting the UK.

This incident highlights the challenges of sustaining advanced military assets abroad and serves as a testament to India–UK defence cooperation. No timeline has been confirmed for whether the jet will fly out once repaired,or if it’ll be shipped home in parts.

sources