A US Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II fighter jet that made an emergency landing at Kannur International Airport in Kerala is finally set to be retrieved. The United States is deploying a massive C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft to airlift the fifth-generation stealth jet back to its base, marking the end of a high-profile military and diplomatic episode in southern India.
The F-35B, one of the most advanced multirole fighter jets in the world, landed unexpectedly at the Kannur International Airport on June 27 due to a technical snag. The incident drew immediate attention not only due to the jet’s cutting-edge stealth and combat capabilities but also because of its rare presence in India, a country that does not operate the F-35.
The emergency landing was executed smoothly by the US pilot, and the aircraft was parked securely at the airport. Since then, Indian and American authorities have worked in coordination to ensure the aircraft’s safety and prepare for its transport back to the United States.
According to officials, the United States has obtained necessary permissions from Indian authorities to deploy a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft, a heavy-lift military cargo plane capable of carrying large military equipment, including fighter jets. The aircraft is expected to arrive in Kerala within days to carry out the logistics operation.
The C-17 mission marks an important instance of logistical cooperation and mutual understanding between India and the United States. Although no sensitive information was disclosed publicly, security protocols were closely followed throughout the aircraft’s stay. The presence of an F-35 in India, albeit briefly and unintentionally, also sparked public interest and curiosity, given India’s strategic defense ties with the US and its own ongoing efforts to modernize its air force.
The F-35B variant, specifically designed for short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) operations, is used primarily by the US Marine Corps and is capable of landing on short runways or even aircraft carriers without catapults. Its emergency landing in Kerala is believed to have been precautionary, with no damage reported to the aircraft or airport facilities.
Officials from the US embassy in India have thanked Indian authorities, especially the airport security and ground staff at Kannur International Airport, for their cooperation and assistance. The safe retrieval of the aircraft is expected to further strengthen India-US defense ties.
