Kerala's Most Expensive Jet Grounded

 Thiruvananthapuram, June 18, 2025:

Following an emergency landing on Saturday night, a British Royal Navy F-35B Lightning II fighter jet, one of the most expensive and sophisticated combat aircraft in the world remained grounded at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport today for the fourth day in a row. 

A suspected hydraulic system failure while flying over international waters from a UK aircraft carrier stationed off the coast caused the stealth aircraft, worth well over $100 million, to divert to Kerala. The unplanned landing was made necessary by bad weather, which prompted the airport to implement strict emergency procedures.

The F-35B was reportedly spotted and identified by the Indian Air Force as it approached, and after verifying that all safety protocols were followed, the aircraft was permitted to land. While the rest of the minimal crew went back to the carrier vessel, the pilot stayed with the aircraft overnight to await repairs. 

To keep the aircraft safe, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has deployed specialized guards. The statement, "A CISF jawan is guarding it," has drawn attention from the public and media. The precise fault has been the subject of conjecture due to this grounding. Although preliminary reports suggested a hydraulic fault, Indian and British naval authorities have not provided definitive confirmation.

However, before the aircraft can safely take off once more, local technical teams are assessing and fixing the problem at the airport. Known for its stealth capabilities and vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, the F-35B is a part of the most costly defense program in history and is mission ready globally. Indian airport officials and British naval personnel are reportedly negotiating to speed up repairs while upholding security procedures. It is claimed that the IAF's situational monitoring ensures that no Indian airspace norms are broken.

According to local aviation experts, this incident demonstrates the high degree of bilateral trust needed when foreign military equipment unexpectedly lands on Indian soil, as well as the technical difficulties of operating fifth generation jets. Regarding the aircraft's technical preparedness and departure time from Thiruvananthapuram, updates are anticipated. With a single CISF guard serving as its sentinel, the F-35B continues to garner unheard-of attention until then.