Pentagon investigating diversion of F-35 fighter jet parts shipment to China

The Pentagon has confirmed it is investigating how a shipment of F-35 fighter jet parts, which was in transit from Australia to the United States for repair or replacement, was diverted. A defense official told CBS News that the F-35 Joint Program Office and the Department of Defense are aware of the incident and are working with industry partners to retrieve the components and prevent future occurrences. While the Pentagon has not officially confirmed the final destination, sources briefed on the matter told CBS News and Bloomberg that the shipment was diverted to Hong Kong and is now in the hands of China. The missing parts reportedly involve the aircraft's canopy and weapons bay door. Experts suggest that while these components do not contain advanced avionics, the radar-absorbent materials used in the canopy could provide insights into the F-35's stealth technology. The incident occurs amid ongoing diplomatic and military tensions between Washington and Beijing, particularly regarding Taiwan, with U.S. lawmakers currently pressing the administration for greater clarity on arms sales policies to the island.