• Source:JND
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British Royal Navy’s F-35B Lightning II made an emergency landing in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on June 14 after it ran out of fuel and encountered bad weather as it was operating around 100 nautical miles off India’s southwest coast. 

A UK fighter jet declared an emergency after encountering bad weather and low fuel levels while on a routine flight outside Indian airspace. The Indian Air Force's Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) swiftly responded, guiding the jet to a safe landing at Thiruvananthapuram airport around 9:30 pm.
 

The trouble was caught during the pre-departure checks. A potential crisis was averted when technicians discovered a hydraulic malfunction during pre-flight checks, highlighting the critical importance of rigorous safety protocols for advanced aircraft like the F-35. 

Despite an initial three-member Royal Navy team's on-site efforts, the hydraulic issue persisted, prompting the UK to deploy a 40-member specialist team with advanced diagnostic tools. However, the delay in their arrival has kept the $80 million F-35 grounded, awaiting critical repairs.

Initially, the Royal Navy declined the offer from Air India to shift the plane inside; however, later the aircraft was relocated inside after a conversation through diplomatic channels. 

What’s Ahead

The UK is reportedly considering dismantling and airlifting the F-35B back home using a Royal Air Force C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft due to the unresolved issue. This move would require careful handling of the aircraft's sensitive and classified components.

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Lockheed Martin-trained engineers will play a crucial role in dismantling the F-35B, as every component, from wings to screws, requires meticulous logging, tagging, and securing. British military personnel will closely oversee the operation to safeguard sensitive technologies.