The Pentagon is investigating the rerouting of F-35 components to Hong Kong / The U.S. Congress has been informed

Components from F-35 fighter jets transported this summer from Australia to the United States for repairs were unexpectedly rerouted to Hong Kong, according to sources cited by Politico. The incident has triggered an investigation and briefings for U.S. congressional committees responsible for national security.

The shipment, handled by an intermediary for manufacturer Lockheed Martin, reportedly included at least one F-35 canopy. The component contains a transparent layer that absorbs radar waves and contributes to the aircraft’s stealth capabilities. Sources cited by the publication fear that, if the parts fall into the hands of actors linked to China, they could be analyzed and reproduced through reverse engineering.

The Pentagon confirmed that there was a problem involving the shipment of “unusable” components and announced that it is working with authorities and industry to recover them and determine the circumstances. U.S. officials first briefed congressional staff in June, and further briefings are scheduled.

Lockheed Martin provided no details, citing security reasons, but said it complies with U.S. transportation regulations. The Chinese Embassy said it was unaware of the incident.

The case highlights once again the vulnerabilities in the F-35 program’s global supply chain. A 2023 GAO report found that more than one million spare parts had gone missing over five years, while the Pentagon lacked a complete and up-to-date record of the inventory managed by contractors.