A British Navy F-35 stealth fighter aircraft had made an emergency landing at Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on Saturday evening after it is said to have run low on fuel during flight.
The plane, which is said to have departed from a UK warship that was anchored in adjoining waters, landed safely at 9:30 PM. The airport officials moved quickly by issuing an emergency so the cutting-edge combat aircraft could land safely.
The pilot reported running low on fuel and requested clearance to land. Everything was done rapidly and professionally,” an airport source informed PTI.
After approval from the concerned Central government ministries, the aircraft will be filled up with fuel, and like any foreign military aircraft overflying or landing in Indian airspace, will be required to do so. The plane is currently parked at the airport under tight security protocols.
Indian Air Force Reacts
The Indian Air Force (IAF) had clarified that the emergency landing was a standard diversion. “This is a normal diversional occurrence by an F-35. The IAF was aware in entirety and helped the aircraft for reasons of flight safety. All support is being given, and the IAF is working in coordination with all the concerned agencies,” read the IAF statement.
About the F-35 and India-UK Military Engagement
The F-35 Lightning II, produced by US defense giant Lockheed Martin, is one of the world’s most advanced fifth-generation fighter aircraft and is flown by a number of NATO allies, including the United Kingdom.
Only days earlier, the Indian Navy had carried out a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with Britain’s Carrier Strike Group (UK CSG25) in the western Arabian Sea. According to a post by the UK CSG, “UK CSG25 accompanied the Indian Navy in an exercise in the western Arabian Sea.”
The two-day exercise included joint anti-submarine operations, tactical manoeuvres, control of helicopters, as well as professional exchanges between both navies’ personnel—emphasizing the deepening defence cooperation between India and the UK.
