US investigating how sensitive F-35 parts diverted to Hong Kong ended up in China's hands - report

Sensitive F-35 stealth fighter components, including a cockpit canopy and weapons-bay door coated with radar-absorbing material, were diverted to Hong Kong en route from Australia to the US and ended up in Chinese possession. US lawmakers are investigating, and the Pentagon is working to recover the parts.

Sensitive components from an F-35 stealth fighter, including a cockpit canopy and weapons-bay door coated with radar-absorbing material, ended up in Chinese hands after a shipment was diverted to Hong Kong. The parts were being shipped from Australia to the US for inspection and possible repair or disposal via UPS. The shipment stopped in South Korea before being rerouted to Hong Kong; it remains unclear whether the diversion was intentional or an error. Chinese authorities took possession and have not returned the parts. At least two congressional committees—the House Armed Services Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee—are investigating, along with the Senate Armed Services airland subcommittee. The Pentagon said it is working to recover the components and investigate. Lockheed Martin described the parts as unserviceable and low risk for exploitation. The incident drew heightened attention because it coincided with Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to the US hosted by President Donald Trump. Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) noted the juxtaposition, calling China a competitor and adversary on intelligence and military issues. China's Foreign Ministry said it was not aware of the situation.