UK stealth jet stuck in Kerala, India, prompts concern, media attention, and official inquiries
Aviation News July 4, 2025 – A British F-35B Lightning II fighter jet has been stranded at Thiruvananthapuram Airport in Kerala, India, since June 14, 2025, following an emergency diversion caused by severe weather conditions over the Indian Ocean. The advanced stealth aircraft, unable to return to the Royal Navy’s HMS Prince of Wales carrier, landed safely but soon developed a technical malfunction, preventing its departure.
Despite efforts from Royal Navy engineers flown in from the carrier, attempts to repair the jet on site have so far failed. In response, UK authorities accepted India’s offer to relocate the aircraft to the airport’s Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility. The transfer to a hangar will occur once specialist British teams and equipment arrive, minimizing disruption to local operations.
The jet—valued at $110 million—is under continuous guard by six Royal Air Force officers. According to a statement from the British High Commission, the aircraft will return to service only after all repairs and safety inspections are completed.
The incident has sparked debate in the UK Parliament. Conservative MP Ben Obese-Jecty raised concerns about the delay and the protection of sensitive onboard technology. In response, Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard reassured that the jet remains under full UK control and praised India’s cooperation.
Meanwhile, the jet’s presence has gone viral on social media in India, with humorous memes and AI-generated images. Kerala’s tourism department even joined in, joking that the state is “a destination you’ll never want to leave.”
Defense analysts noted that the prolonged delay could damage the reputation of both the F-35 program and the Royal Navy, urging better preparedness for such high-risk scenarios.
Image Kerala Tourism
