A British Royal Navy F-35B Lightning II stealth fighter jet, valued at over $100 million, remains stranded at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in India following an emergency landing nearly two weeks ago. The aircraft was forced to touch down on June 14, 2025, after suffering a hydraulic system failure amid adverse weather conditions and low fuel during a routine operation as part of the UK’s HMS Prince of Wales carrier strike group.
Despite immediate repair attempts by Royal Navy technicians, the jet remains immobilized, prompting the RAF to dispatch a specialized technical team, including Lockheed Martin experts, to address the issue. However, their efforts have yet to yield a solution, and the aircraft is currently parked under tight surveillance by the Central Industrial Security Force.
The unexpected delay has raised eyebrows over the mounting parking fees, estimated at approximately $28,000 per day, accumulating to around $3,700 over the past 12 days. This situation poses logistical challenges for the UK, as additional costs for towing and technical support could significantly inflate the final bill.
Speculation is rife regarding the prolonged repair process, with some defense analysts questioning whether interference from Indian radar systems has complicated the situation. Such theories suggest that the problem may extend beyond mechanical issues, raising concerns about the jet’s advanced stealth capabilities.
As the Royal Navy and RAF work diligently behind closed doors, the fate of the F-35B hangs in the balance. Will it take to the skies again or face the costly prospect of an airlift back to the UK? The world watches closely as this high-stakes drama unfolds, with implications that could resonate far beyond the tarmac of an Indian airport.
