UK accepts India’s offer to repair F-35B at TVM airport MRO facility; specialists to arrive with equipment soon

New Delhi: Aviation engineers from the United Kingdom are set to arrive in Thiruvananthapuram to repair a British Royal Navy F-35B Lightning fighter jet, which has remained stranded at the international airport since its emergency landing on June 14.

The aircraft is part of the HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group, which recently participated in joint exercises with the Indian Navy.

A British High Commission spokesperson confirmed on Friday that the aircraft developed an engineering issue and is awaiting repairs at Thiruvananthapuram international airport. The jet, reportedly worth over USD 110 million, is widely regarded as one of the most advanced fighters in the world.

The UK has accepted an offer to move the aircraft to the airport’s Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility.

"The aircraft will be moved to the hangar once UK engineering teams arrive with specialist equipment, thereby ensuring there is minimal disruption to scheduled maintenance of other aircraft," the spokesperson said.

The F-35B, known as the 'Lightning' in British service, is the only fifth-generation fighter capable of short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL), making it suitable for use on ships, small airfields, and austere bases.

Return to service after safety checks

The spokesperson further stated: "Ground teams continue to work closely with Indian authorities to ensure safety and security precautions are observed. We thank the Indian authorities and Thiruvananthapuram international airport for their continued support."

Once repairs and safety checks are completed, the aircraft is expected to return to active duty. The jet had been unable to return to HMS Prince of Wales due to adverse weather conditions following the emergency landing.

Engineers aboard HMS Prince of Wales initially assessed the situation and determined that the assistance of UK-based engineering teams was required.

Days after the incident, the Indian Air Force stated it was extending all necessary support for the "rectification and subsequent return" of the aircraft.