Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jul 6: Nearly three weeks after a UK F-35B Lightning II fighter jet made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, a team of British engineers has arrived in India to oversee its complex repair and recovery operation.

According to sources, over a dozen UK technicians are part of the high-priority mission, equipped with specialised tools and systems essential for restoring the advanced stealth aircraft, known for its cutting-edge capabilities and vertical landing features.

In a statement, a British High Commission spokesperson confirmed:

“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 spokesperson added that the UK had accepted space at a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility and was working with Indian authorities to finalise arrangements for the aircraft’s relocation.

“The UK remains very grateful for the continued support and collaboration of the Indian authorities and airport teams,” the statement noted.

The fifth-generation jet, part of the UK’s Carrier Strike Group deployed aboard HMS Prince of Wales, was forced to make an emergency landing on June 14 during a mission over the Indian Ocean. Reports indicate the jet diverted due to fuel depletion mid-sortie and landed safely at the Kerala airport.

Since then, the aircraft has remained grounded, drawing national attention as several on-site repair attempts failed, primarily due to the highly sophisticated nature of the jet and the absence of proprietary repair tools.

With the arrival of the British technical team and equipment, officials are optimistic about progress, though no specific timeline has been announced.

“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 spokesperson clarified.

While the UK has remained tight-lipped on operational specifics, the development underscores the deepening defence cooperation and logistical collaboration between India and the United Kingdom. The situation is now expected to advance significantly, as technicians begin the process of moving and restoring one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world.