Chinese authorities are reportedly in possession of F-35 fighter components after a shipment from Australia was diverted to Hong Kong, according to Bloomberg, citing sources.
The shipment, handled by UPS in late May, reportedly contained a cockpit canopy and weapons bay door. Both components were coated with radar-absorbing material used to enhance the aircraft’s stealth characteristics. The reason for the diversion remains unclear.
The F-35 is a fifth-generation stealth fighter whose technology is tightly controlled by Washington. China has previously been accused by U.S. prosecutors of targeting F-35-related military information in espionage cases.
The incident comes amid scrutiny of F-35 technology transfers, including a recently approved $24 billion sale to Saudi Arabia, which has drawn concerns in Congress about potential access by China.
Related Tweet:
The Chinese government has taken possession of potentially sensitive F-35 stealth aircraft parts that were inexplicably diverted to Hong Kong while being sent to the U.S. from Australia. https://t.co/OIVtqzDBmc
— The Japan Times (@japantimes) September 24, 2026
Also Read:
TIPP Staff
