Thiruvananthapuram: The British Royal Navy's F-35B fighter jet, which made an emergency landing in Thiruvananthapuram due to technical issues, has undergone successful repairs. The aircraft is expected to depart for the UK next week, pending approval from the Chief of the Navy.

The initial faults were traced to the aircraft's hydraulic system and the auxiliary power unit, both of which have been repaired. Following the repairs, the jet was moved out of the hangar, and its engine performance was thoroughly tested to ensure readiness for flight.

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The engine's endurance was assessed using the sandblast facility at the hangar, which helped simulate demanding operational conditions. With the tests completed successfully, preparations are now under way for the jet’s departure.

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The F-35B had landed in Thiruvananthapuram on 14 June during a military exercise over the Arabian Sea, after experiencing a fuel shortage. A British C-17 Globemaster aircraft is scheduled to arrive in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday to retrieve the maintenance equipment used for the repair work.