Kerala Gets a Surprise Guest: British Stealth Fighter Makes Emergency ‘Refuel Rendezvous

Image Source: HUM News

A Royal Navy HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group British F-35B Lightning II fighter aircraft made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, Kerala, on Saturday night when it became critically low on fuel. It happened around 9:30 pm, when airport authorities announced an emergency and coordinated a quick, safe landing of the advanced stealth aircraft.

The aircraft, which was operating from the British warship, deployed approximately 100 nautical miles off the Kerala coast, was unable to return to its warship due to adverse weather conditions and fuel shortages. The pilot requested emergency landing clearance, which was provided immediately. The aircraft landed safely without sustaining any damage or injury.

The F-35B continues to stay at the airport under close security today. Refuelling and departure will be undertaken once Indian central agencies provide the necessary clearances, as is the usual procedure for foreign military planes in Indian airspace. Indian Air Force officials termed the diversion as a standard safety measure and confirmed complete coordination with the Royal Navy and airport authorities.

The British Carrier Strike Group, commanded by the HMS Prince of Wales, has been deployed in India's Arabian Sea and has also recently participated in bilateral naval drills with the Indian Navy, indicating growing defence cooperation between the two nations.

Key Points

British F-35B fighter jet performed an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on Saturday at 9:30 pm due to low fuel.
The aircraft had launched from HMS Prince of Wales, stationed about 100 nautical miles offshore.
Emergency protocols were initiated; landing was smooth with no problems faced.
Refuelling will be done after obtaining compulsory clearances from Indian authorities.
The Indian Air Force described the incident as a normal diversion and offered complete cooperation.
The jet is also a participant in routine Indo-UK naval exercises and has participated recently in combined exercises in the Arabian Sea.

Source: Times of India, Firstpost, Mathrubhumi, Economic Times, Financial Express, OpIndia, Hindustan Times, Indian Express, News18, India TV News, Deccan Chronicle, NDTV, Madhyamam Online