British F-35B fighter jet finally repaired after month-long ordeal in India

In June, a British F-35B stealth fighter jet encountered severe weather conditions while on a routine sortie over the Arabian Sea, approximately 100 nautical miles off the coast of India. Unable to return to its carrier, the HMS Prince of Wales, the pilot requested emergency landing clearance at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala. Upon landing on June 14, the aircraft faced technical difficulties, specifically hydraulic issues and problems with its auxiliary power unit, which rendered it grounded for an extended period. A team of technicians from the UK was dispatched to assess the situation after initial repair attempts were unsuccessful. With specialized equipment, these engineers were able to successfully fix the hydraulic snag and address the auxiliary power issues, which had kept the sophisticated military aircraft grounded. During its time in India, the aircraft's unexpected presence spurred a range of reactions, from amusement to concern over the security of its advanced technology, particularly given that India does not operate American F-35s. Social media in India reacted to the stranded jet with AI-generated memes and light-hearted commentary, including tourism posts that humorously depicted the jet enjoying the local scenery and hospitality. This humor was seen as a way for local authorities to appreciate British visitors, a significant demographic for tourism in Kerala. Finally, on July 22, 2025, after more than a month in India, the jet was declared airworthy and prepared for departure, with plans to fly it to a British aircraft carrier stationed in Darwin, Australia. The logistical challenges and potential costs associated with the jet's prolonged stay at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport were acknowledged, with airport operators considering levying parking and hangar charges.