UK team to inspect stranded F-35 in Thiruvananthapuram tomorrow after failed repair attempts
Thiruvananthapuram: A team of about 25 British aviation engineers is expected to arrive in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday to assess the F-35B fighter jet of the British Royal Navy that has remained grounded for nearly three weeks following an emergency landing last month, India Today reported.
The team will inspect the aircraft to identify the fault and determine whether the jet can be repaired in India or needs to be dismantled and flown back to the UK, the report said.
India had earlier offered support for repairs through the nearest Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) facility.
The advanced fifth-generation fighter jet, part of the HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group, was operating around 100 nautical miles off the Kerala coast on June 14 when it was forced to make an emergency diversion to Thiruvananthapuram due to bad weather and low fuel.
The Indian Air Force facilitated a safe landing and extended refuelling and logistical support.
Hydraulic failure grounds jet after safe landing
While the initial emergency landing was successful, a pre-departure check revealed a hydraulic fault, preventing the aircraft from returning to its carrier. The malfunction, considered serious, could impact the aircraft’s ability to take off and land safely.
A small team from the Royal Navy, including three technicians, attempted on-site repairs but was unable to resolve the issue due to the technical complexity involved.
British engineers to decide next steps
With previous efforts unsuccessful, the incoming team will take a final call on whether the fighter can be restored to flying condition locally or needs to be dismantled and airlifted back to the UK in a transport aircraft.
The F-35B has been parked at Bay 4 of the Thiruvananthapuram airport and is under security cover provided by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
Initially, the British Navy declined an offer from Air India to move the aircraft into a hangar despite heavy monsoon conditions.
The decision was later reversed, and the aircraft has since been sheltered indoors.
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