**Breaking News: US Technicians Mobilize for Urgent F-35B Rescue in Kerala**

In a dramatic turn of events, a British Royal Navy F-35B Lightning II stealth fighter jet, valued at over $100 million, has been grounded at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala for nearly two weeks, prompting an urgent rescue operation by US and British technicians. The aircraft was forced into an emergency landing on June 14, 2025, after encountering severe weather and dangerously low fuel during a routine Indo-Pacific patrol, leaving it stranded 100 nautical miles from its carrier, HMS Prince of Wales.

The situation escalated when initial repair efforts by a small technical team were unsuccessful. The F-35B’s intricate systems require specialized tools and expertise, leading to the deployment of a full engineering team from the UK. After extensive negotiations, the jet was relocated to a secure hangar at the airport, a decision made to minimize interference with ongoing civil and military operations.

Specialized towing equipment is currently being flown in from the UK as British and American technicians prepare to assess the fighter for potential repairs. If these efforts prove inadequate, plans are in place for a C-17 Globemaster airlift, capable of transporting the 27.3-ton aircraft back to the UK.

The prolonged presence of the F-35B has sparked logistical and financial challenges, with the airport authority charging approximately $350 per day in parking fees. While these costs are minor in the context of the UK’s defense budget, they underscore the complexities of modern military operations and international cooperation.

A UK defense spokesperson expressed gratitude towards Indian authorities for their support, emphasizing the importance of safety and security in this intricate operation. As the F-35B remains a grounded testament to cutting-edge technology, the world watches closely, questioning whether this incident is merely a technical glitch or indicative of deeper issues within military aviation.