A British F-35B Lightning II, one of the world’s most advanced fighter jets, made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala late Saturday night after reportedly running low on fuel during a mission over the Indian Ocean.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) confirmed the incident, stating it was a routine diversion for flight safety. “All assistance is being given,” the IAF noted, adding it was in close coordination with all relevant agencies.
The F-35B, a short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) variant, is part of the UK’s HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group, currently deployed in the Indo-Pacific region and fresh off joint exercises with the Indian Navy.
Military aviation analysts noted that while such emergency landings are uncommon, they are not unprecedented. Preliminary reports suggest poor weather around the aircraft carrier may have hindered the jet’s return to its sea-based platform, prompting a diversion to the nearest safe airstrip.
The F-35 programme, developed by Lockheed Martin, represents the cutting edge of aerial warfare technology. Its stealth, data fusion, and network-centric capabilities make it a key asset in modern Western defence strategies.
As of Sunday morning, the jet remains safely parked at Thiruvananthapuram Airport. No official statements have been issued by the UK Ministry of Defence or Lockheed Martin.
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