Pentagon investigates after China obtains parts from F-35 stealth fighter jet
The Pentagon is investigating how components from an advanced F-35 stealth fighter jet were diverted and ended up in Hong Kong, prompting congressional inquiries. While Australian defense officials downplayed the sensitivity of the missing parts, the incident coincides with heightened scrutiny over military supply chain security and a state visit by Chinese leader Xi Jinping.
Why it matters
The unauthorized diversion of cutting-edge military hardware to Chinese territory presents a serious security breach and intellectual property risk for the United States and its allies.
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.
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