Overview

• The pilot reported a possible mechanical fault to air traffic control before diverting to Kagoshima and touched down safely at about 11:30 a.m.
• Airport officials closed the runway for roughly 20 minutes to move the jet and perform safety checks, delaying six commercial flights.
• The stealth fighter is part of HMS Prince of Wales’ Carrier Strike Group 25, which is conducting joint drills with Japanese and U.S. forces through August 12.
• No injuries were reported and engineers are now inspecting the aircraft before its planned return to the carrier.
• Following a June grounding in India, this landing underscores the logistical and maintenance challenges of deploying F-35Bs far from home bases.