UK team arrives in Thiruvananthapuram to inspect grounded F-35B Jet

Mangalore Today News Network

Thiruvananthapuram, July 6, 2025: A Royal Air Force Airbus A400M Atlas aircraft landed at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on Sunday, bringing a 24-member UK team to inspect the British F-35B fighter jet that has been grounded for three weeks following an emergency landing.

The team includes 14 RAF technical experts and 10 crew members. They will assess whether the jet can be repaired on-site or must be dismantled and flown back to the UK. The A400M aircraft is expected to return by 3:30 pm, while the experts remain to oversee repairs.

The UK has accepted India’s offer of space at a local Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility, and discussions with authorities are ongoing. A British High Commission spokesperson confirmed that engineers have brought specialist equipment and will follow standard procedures to move and repair the aircraft.

Sources indicate that the UK may attempt to fix the F-35B’s hydraulic issues and fly it back, as airlifting it would require a larger C-17 aircraft.

The UK High Commissioner expressed gratitude for India’s continued support and coordination in handling the situation.