US Congress investigates diversion of sensitive F-35 parts to Hong Kong: report

The US Congress is investigating allegations that sensitive F-35 fighter jet parts were diverted to Hong Kong, according to a report by Politico. The shipment, which originated in Australia and was being sent to the United States for repairs, reportedly went missing en route during the summer. Hong Kong authorities have declined to comment on the case.

The Pentagon's F-35 Joint Program Office confirmed it was aware of the incident, stating they are collaborating with US authorities and industry partners to recover the parts, investigate the issue, and implement measures to prevent future occurrences. The US State Department has not commented on the inquiry, while the Chinese Embassy denied knowledge of the incident.

The shipment reportedly included an F-35 canopy, which houses stealth technology accessible only to the US and its allies, raising concerns about potential reverse engineering. Lockheed Martin, the F-35 manufacturer, managed the supply chain and stated it adheres to all US regulations for shipping aircraft components. However, recent years have seen the US Defense Department increasing its oversight of the F-35 supply chain.

A 2023 Government Accountability Office report revealed that over 1 million F-35 spare parts had gone missing in the previous five years, with the department unable to review losses exceeding tens of millions of dollars due to Lockheed Martin's control over the information.