Chinese authorities are reportedly in possession of parts of an F-35 stealth fighter jet after a shipment carrying the components was unexpectedly diverted to Hong Kong, according to reports citing people familiar with the matter.
The shipment, which was being transported by UPS from Australia to the United States in late May, reportedly contained an F-35 cockpit canopy and weapons bay door. Bloomberg reported that the shipment was diverted to Hong Kong under circumstances that remain unclear.
Both components were reportedly coated with radar-absorbing material designed to reduce the aircraft’s radar signature and enhance its stealth capabilities.
It remains unclear why the shipment was diverted to Hong Kong or whether Chinese authorities formally took possession of the components.
Australia investigating missing F-35 components
Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said Canberra was aware of the shipment and was working with the United States and Lockheed Martin to determine how Australia could assist with the investigation.
However, Marles said it was his understanding that the missing shipment did not contain sensitive components.
Lockheed Martin, UPS and the US Department of Defense did not immediately respond to requests for comment, according to reports.
The incident has raised questions about the security of F-35-related equipment, particularly because the aircraft incorporates highly advanced stealth and sensor technologies.
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F-35 technology closely protected
The F-35 Lightning II is a fifth-generation stealth fighter manufactured by Lockheed Martin. The United States has restricted access to the aircraft to a group of close allies and partner countries because of the sensitive military technology involved.
Turkey, for example, was removed from the F-35 programme in 2019 after purchasing Russia’s S-400 air defence system. Washington had expressed concerns that operating the Russian system alongside the F-35 could expose sensitive information about the aircraft’s capabilities.
China has also previously been linked to efforts to obtain US military information related to the F-35. US prosecutors in 2024 accused a Chinese national of involvement in a computer hacking operation that allegedly targeted sensitive information.
Saudi F-35 deal raises technology concerns
The reported diversion comes as Washington faces renewed scrutiny over the international distribution of F-35 technology.
The United States recently approved a reported $24 billion sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. Some members of Congress have raised concerns that advanced military technology supplied to Riyadh could potentially become accessible to China.
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi said US intelligence assessments had warned that the proposed sale could place highly sensitive American military technology within China’s reach.
Australia, Belgium and the United States are among the countries operating F-35 aircraft, while Japan, Canada and Singapore are also among the countries that have ordered the fighter.
F-35 deployed in Iran conflict
The United States has also deployed F-35 fighter jets during its conflict with Iran.
One US F-35 reportedly sustained damage from enemy fire during the conflict, highlighting the aircraft’s role in active military operations and the importance of protecting its technology and components.
The circumstances surrounding the diverted shipment remain under investigation, and it has not been established publicly whether the components contain information that could compromise the F-35’s sensitive capabilities.
