As earlier reported by , the UK Carrier Strike Group, comprising HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Richmond, visited India for a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) in which the Indian Navy’s stealth frigate INS Tabar, a submarine, and P8I aircraft participated in the North Arabian Sea.The aircraft subsequently developed an engineering issue while on the ground, which precluded its return to the carrier.Initially, the engineers from HMS Prince of Wales assessed the aircraft and decided that the support of a UK-based engineering team was needed. At this time, there is no forecast for when the aircraft will be repaired.The F-35 is a fifth-generation maritime fighter with ‘short take-off and vertical landing’ (STOVL) capability.To minimise disruptions to regular airport operations, the aircraft will be moved to a space in the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility hangar once specialist equipment and UK engineering teams arrive.Throughout this diversion incident, “we have worked closely with all Indian authorities, including the Indian Air Force, Indian Navy, and Thiruvananthapuram International Airport and are extremely grateful for their support,” the spokesperson said.The safe landing, logistics, and continuing security and organisational support provided by India in responding to this situation further demonstrate the close coordination and deepening relationship that exists between the Armed Forces of the UK and India.
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