Published on: June 28, 2025 4:15 pm
Introduction
In a rare incident highlighting the logistical challenges of deploying advanced military technology abroad, the UK Royal Navy’s F-35B Lightning II stealth fighter jet has been grounded at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala, India, since mid-June 2025. The aircraft, valued at approximately $100 million, experienced a hydraulic failure while returning from the Red Flag exercises in Alaska and has yet to resume flight operations.
Hydraulic Failure Grounds UK F-35B in Kerala
On June 14, 2025, the F-35B fighter jet made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram Airport after the pilot reported a critical hydraulic system malfunction. This system is essential for the aircraft’s flight control surfaces, landing gear, and emergency braking, forcing the pilot to take precautionary measures and divert to the nearest suitable airfield.
Due to the severity of the fault and the jet’s sophisticated design, Indian ground crews could not perform repairs, necessitating the arrival of a specialized UK engineering team along with required equipment to begin fixing the problem.
Ongoing Repair Efforts and Challenges
British engineers have been stationed on-site since the aircraft’s arrival, conducting diagnostic assessments and initiating repairs. However, the complexity of the F-35’s hydraulic system and dependency on proprietary technology means the repair timeline remains uncertain.
To facilitate better repair conditions, India has offered the use of its Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility at the airport. The UK has accepted this offer, but the jet’s relocation to the hangar awaits the arrival of towing equipment and the engineering team. The aircraft currently remains secured in an open area under the supervision of India’s Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
Diplomatic and Security Handling
The Indian government and defense authorities have managed the situation with utmost professionalism and diplomacy. The aircraft has been treated as a foreign military asset in transit, with strict security protocols preventing any unauthorized access.
Officials from India’s Ministry of External Affairs and Defense Ministry have been regularly updated, but the incident has not escalated into a diplomatic issue. Instead, it has underscored the strong cooperation between India and the UK in managing unforeseen military contingencies.
What Does This Mean for UK-India Military Relations?
This incident, while technical, subtly reflects the strategic ties between India and the UK. India’s cooperation in providing security and logistical support during the emergency highlights the growing trust and collaboration between the two countries’ armed forces.
For readers interested in deeper defense cooperation topics, explore our articles on:
The Broader Context: F-35 Program’s Maintenance Challenges
The F-35 program, despite being the most advanced stealth fighter program globally, has faced consistent criticism for its high operational costs and maintenance demands. Repair times for critical parts often extend beyond targeted schedules, leading to reduced aircraft availability worldwide.
This incident in India is part of a pattern that includes similar maintenance challenges faced by allied nations operating the F-35, including the US, Japan, and South Korea.
Financial Implications: Parking Fees and Repair Costs
Reports have surfaced that Kerala airport authorities intend to charge the UK government parking fees for the aircraft, as it has remained on the tarmac for over two weeks. While the exact cost details have not been publicly disclosed, such fees highlight the unexpected financial burdens associated with unplanned military aircraft groundings abroad.
What’s Next for the F-35B?
The UK’s technical team is expected to complete repairs and prepare the aircraft for safe flight back to its carrier or the UK mainland. However, no official timeline has been announced, as the extent of repairs and parts availability remain critical factors.
Conclusion
The grounding of the UK Royal Navy’s F-35B fighter jet in Kerala serves as a case study in the complex logistics involved in sustaining cutting-edge military equipment during international operations. India’s role in facilitating security and repair support exemplifies robust bilateral relations with the UK.
As the situation develops, it raises questions about future operational readiness and the strategic autonomy of nations relying on expensive, high-maintenance defense platforms.