UK fighter jet stuck in India for five weeks leaves for Australia

UK Prime Minister's Embarrassment

The Royal Air Force (RAF) aircraft has been stranded in India since mid-June after it developed a technical problem during a training mission and was forced to make an emergency landing in Mumbai. The aircraft and its personnel have since been stuck in India due to India's COVID-19 restrictions, which meant that they could not leave the aircraft hangar until recently. The defense secretary, Ben Wallace, has described the situation as "embarrassing" for the UK, and the delay has been heavily criticized.

What's Next for the Jet?

The jet, along with its crew, will soon be departing for Australia to participate in the Pitch Black exercise, which is multilateral warfare training exercise conducted annually by the Royal Australian Air Force. The exercise, which generally attracts around a thousand personnel from countries including France, Indonesia, and the United States, aims to improve combat readiness and interoperability.

What They Said

"I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Government of India and especially the people of Mumbai for looking after them so well during their unexpected stay. I know that this has been an uncomfortable and frustrating experience for them, and I am very grateful for the support and compassion they have received." - Ben Wallace, UK defence secretary