Australia says it protects defence tech after report F-35 parts diverted

Australia has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding classified defence technology and maintaining stringent export controls, following a media report that F-35 fighter jet parts were unexpectedly diverted to Hong Kong. The United States, which operates over 800 F-35 jets, expressed security concerns over the incident, though it was not stated that Australia bore responsibility.

The diversion of parts, which included radar-resistant technology, is being investigated, with the outcome of the equipment's whereabouts currently unknown. Australia's robust export control regime, administered by the defence force, is taken very seriously and is in line with the country's export control legislative framework. With 72 F-35 jets, Australia is among seven non-US nations sharing a global pool of spare parts, alongside countries like Canada, Denmark, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, and the UK.

Another 12 nations have procured the fighter jet, including Japan, Singapore, and South Korea. Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer, stated that it could not comment on the shipments due to security concerns, emphasizing that every shipment is conducted with the utmost diligence and in compliance with US regulations.