After enduring technical snags in Thiruvananthapuram, the F-35B jet received the necessary repairs and is confirmed airworthy.
UK F-35B Fighter Jet Finally Set to Leave India After Lengthy Delay
UK F-35B Fighter Jet Finally Set to Leave India After Lengthy Delay
A British fighter jet stranded in India for over five weeks is ready for departure on Tuesday.
The F-35B fighter jet, which had been stuck at Thiruvananthapuram airport in Kerala for more than five weeks, is scheduled to depart on Tuesday, according to an airport spokesperson. The advanced military aircraft had originally landed on June 14 after being diverted due to inclement weather and subsequently developed technical issues while on a mission in the Indian Ocean.
Officials stated that the F-35B will be pulled from its hangar today, although specific technical details were not disclosed. This unexpected delay raised eyebrows regarding how a state-of-the-art fighter jet could remain grounded in a foreign nation for so long.
After the aircraft was unable to resume its journey, personnel from the Royal Navy's flagship HMS Prince of Wales attempted repairs, but were unsuccessful. Subsequently, a specialized team of 14 engineers from the UK Ministry of Defence was dispatched to conduct an assessment and perform necessary repairs. They brought specialized equipment to facilitate the process.
Images of the F-35B, affectionately dubbed the “lonely F-35B,” parked amidst the tropical downpours of Kerala, sparked a wave of internet humor, with social media users playfully suggesting that the jet enjoyed its time in the picturesque region, known for its lush landscapes and tourism appeal as “God's own country.”
During the past weeks, the UK high commission and defense officials maintained silence on repair specifics but confirmed on Monday that the fighter jet was deemed airworthy. While the exact time of departure and details regarding refueling stops back to the UK remain unclear, the news marks a significant chapter in the saga of this $110 million aircraft.
The incident had even gained attention in the British House of Commons as citizens and officials alike were curious about the fate of the remarkable stealth jet, produced by Lockheed Martin. As the F-35B prepares for takeoff, the focus turns to its return flight and the implications of its extended stay in India.
Officials stated that the F-35B will be pulled from its hangar today, although specific technical details were not disclosed. This unexpected delay raised eyebrows regarding how a state-of-the-art fighter jet could remain grounded in a foreign nation for so long.
After the aircraft was unable to resume its journey, personnel from the Royal Navy's flagship HMS Prince of Wales attempted repairs, but were unsuccessful. Subsequently, a specialized team of 14 engineers from the UK Ministry of Defence was dispatched to conduct an assessment and perform necessary repairs. They brought specialized equipment to facilitate the process.
Images of the F-35B, affectionately dubbed the “lonely F-35B,” parked amidst the tropical downpours of Kerala, sparked a wave of internet humor, with social media users playfully suggesting that the jet enjoyed its time in the picturesque region, known for its lush landscapes and tourism appeal as “God's own country.”
During the past weeks, the UK high commission and defense officials maintained silence on repair specifics but confirmed on Monday that the fighter jet was deemed airworthy. While the exact time of departure and details regarding refueling stops back to the UK remain unclear, the news marks a significant chapter in the saga of this $110 million aircraft.
The incident had even gained attention in the British House of Commons as citizens and officials alike were curious about the fate of the remarkable stealth jet, produced by Lockheed Martin. As the F-35B prepares for takeoff, the focus turns to its return flight and the implications of its extended stay in India.
