UK F-35 Fighter Jet Remains Grounded in Kerala Due to Hydraulic Issue
- June 22, 2025
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A Royal Navy F-35 fighter jet is currently grounded at Thiruvananthapuram airport in Kerala, India, due to an unresolved hydraulic problem. The aircraft, which is part of the British Royal Navy’s fleet, has been unable to take off as engineers continue to work on fixing the issue. Despite their efforts, the technical snag persists, preventing the jet from returning to its operational duties.
The situation has prompted plans to relocate the fighter jet to a hangar for further inspection and maintenance. This move is intended to facilitate a more thorough examination by specialized teams expected to arrive from the United Kingdom and the United States. These teams are anticipated to bring additional expertise and equipment necessary for diagnosing and resolving the hydraulic malfunction.
The extended stay of the F-35 in Kerala highlights the complexities involved in maintaining advanced military aircraft and underscores the importance of international collaboration in addressing technical challenges. The presence of specialized teams from both the UK and the US signifies a coordinated effort to ensure the aircraft’s readiness and operational capability.
The delay in resolving the issue could have implications for the Royal Navy’s operational schedule, as each aircraft plays a crucial role in defense readiness. The situation also emphasizes the logistical challenges faced when dealing with sophisticated military technology far from home bases.
As efforts continue, all parties involved are focused on ensuring that the fighter jet can safely return to service without compromising its performance or safety standards. The outcome of this technical intervention will be closely monitored by military aviation experts and stakeholders.