A UK Royal Navy F-35 stealth fighter jet has been grounded at Kerala’s Cochin International Airport for nearly 20 days following a technical snag. The aircraft, considered one of the most advanced in the world, made an emergency landing after experiencing issues mid-flight during a training deployment aboard the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales.

Despite several attempts to repair it onsite, British and Indian technicians have been unable to get the jet airborne again. Due to the complex nature of the aircraft and the lack of appropriate infrastructure at the commercial airport, the decision has now been made to dismantle the fighter jet and transport it back to the UK in parts.

The dismantling will be carried out under strict supervision and involves significant logistical coordination. Officials emphasized that no security breach has occurred, and all operations are in compliance with international protocols.

This unusual incident has drawn attention not only due to the high-tech nature of the aircraft but also because such jets rarely need to be dismantled outside military zones.