Pentagon investigates after China obtains parts from F-35 stealth fighter jet

The Pentagon is investigating how parts of the nation's most advanced fighter jet ended up in Hong Kong, with a news outlet reporting on Wednesday (September 23, 2026) that China has obtained the F-35 equipment.

The F-35 Joint Program Office said in a statement that it and the Defense Department are aware of “a shipment issue" with F-35 components.

“We are actively working with U.S. authorities and industry partners to retrieve these components, investigate the incident, and place safeguards to avoid a future occurrence,” the office said.

Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles acknowledged that the jet components ended up in Hong Kong when responding to questions from reporters on Tuesday. But he denied that the missing parts were “sensitive equipment.”

Australia is one of several nations whose militaries operate the stealth fighter jet.