UK F-35B Fighter Faces Possible Repatriation via Military Transport Following Hydraulic System Failure
A British Royal Navy F-35B Lightning II stealth fighter has been stationed at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport for nearly a week following an emergency landing. Defence officials confirmed on Friday that due to an unresolved hydraulic failure, the aircraft might need to be transported back using a military transport aircraft.
The jet, part of the HMS Prince of Wales carrier strike group operating in the Indo-Pacific, was conducting routine flight operations outside of Indian airspace when it was compelled to land on June 14. The Indian Air Force (IAF) reported that the pilot requested emergency landing clearance due to low fuel, leading to a swift response from India’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS).
After the emergency landing, the Indian Air Force provided necessary refuelling and ground support services. However, efforts to return the aircraft to its carrier were hampered by a significant hydraulic system malfunction.
A senior defence official stated, “A UK Navy maintenance team initially attempted repairs on site but failed to rectify the issue. Now, a larger team is expected to arrive for further diagnostics. If on-ground repairs prove unsuccessful, the jet may be returned via a military transport aircraft.”
The presence of the advanced stealth fighter at a civilian airport has garnered notable attention. Concerns over sensitive technology may have influenced the British decision to decline Air India’s previous offer of hangar space for the aircraft, according to sources.
The IAF continues to provide technical and logistical support to aid in the aircraft’s safe recovery, reflecting the strong military cooperation between India and the United Kingdom.
This incident underscores the operational challenges of deploying fifth-generation fighter aircraft in remote areas, as well as the difficulties involved in maintaining such advanced platforms away from their home bases.
