Fri Jun 27 12:32:56 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Stranded British F-35B Fighter Jet to be Moved to Hangar After Initial Security Concerns**

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, India – A British F-35B fighter jet, grounded at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala for two weeks due to an engineering issue, is set to be moved to the airport’s Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility. Engineering teams from the UK, equipped with specialized equipment, are expected to arrive soon to oversee the relocation.

The advanced stealth fighter made an emergency landing on June 14 after completing a joint maritime exercise with the Indian Navy and was returning to the HMS Prince of Wales carrier strike group, after reporting low fuel levels. Although refueling was expected to allow for an imminent departure, a technical snag grounded the aircraft.

Initially, concerns were raised regarding the security of the F-35B’s advanced technology. Sources had indicated that the British Navy had declined a previous offer to house the aircraft in an Air India hangar, possibly to prevent close inspection of the stealth fighter.

However, according to a UK High Commission spokesperson, the UK has now accepted the offer to move the aircraft to the MRO facility. The spokesperson emphasized that the relocation would be carried out in a way that minimizes disruption to the airport’s scheduled maintenance operations.

The F-35B is a fifth-generation supersonic stealth fighter, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, and is considered the most advanced of its kind. The program, also known as the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program, is the most expensive fighter jet program in history. However, recent reports also indicate high maintenance costs and development delays may make it difficult to purchase, operate and sustain the aircraft in its 66-year life cycle.

The UK High Commission stated that the British government has been working closely with Indian authorities, including the Air Force, Navy, and airport officials, throughout the situation. They added that the aircraft would return to active service after the necessary repairs and safety checks are completed, thanking the Indian authorities and the airport for their continued support. The grounded stealth fighter will soon be able to take to the skies.

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