UK Navy F-35 Fighter Jet Makes Emergency Landing in Kerala
Emergency Landing of UK Navy F-35 in Thiruvananthapuram
On Saturday night, a United Kingdom Navy F-35 fighter jet executed an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala. The stealth aircraft, which was operating from a British aircraft carrier in the vicinity, landed safely around 9:30 PM.
#WATCH | Kerala: An F-35 fighter jet of the UK Navy made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport due to low fuel. The aircraft is still there.
— Media Channel (@MediaChannel) June 15, 2025
(Visuals from Thiruvananthapuram Airport) pic.twitter.com/2M0EsBJcOX
According to sources at the airport, the aircraft made the emergency landing after reporting low fuel levels during its flight. "The pilot communicated the low fuel situation and requested landing clearance. The situation was managed swiftly and professionally," the source noted.
Airport officials promptly declared an emergency to facilitate the safe landing of the advanced fifth-generation fighter jet. Refueling will be permitted once the necessary approvals are obtained from the relevant authorities in the Central government, as is standard protocol for foreign military aircraft in Indian airspace.
IAF Comments on the Emergency Landing
Meanwhile, officials from the Indian Air Force (IAF) stated that the emergency landing was a routine diversion and that they were fully informed of the situation. They provided all necessary support and are collaborating with the appropriate agencies.
"This type of diversion by an F-35 is common. The IAF was aware and ensured the aircraft's safety. All required assistance is being offered, and the IAF is coordinating with all relevant parties," the IAF mentioned in their statement.
The F-35 Lightning II, developed by Lockheed Martin in the United States, is one of the most advanced fourth-generation fighter jets globally and is utilized by several NATO allies, including the UK.
Strengthening India-UK Defence Ties
Earlier this week, the Indian Navy and the UK's Carrier Strike Group (UK CSG25) participated in a joint naval exercise in the western Arabian Sea, known as a Passage Exercise (PASSEX).
"UK CSG25 collaborated with the Indian Navy for an exercise in the western Arabian Sea," stated a post from the UK Carrier Strike Group.
The two-day naval drill involved various activities, including coordinated anti-submarine operations, tactical maneuvers, and communication between naval aviators and flight deck officers for standard helicopter control.