Australia is assisting the United States in investigating how components from the F-35 fighter jet program were mistakenly diverted to Hong Kong, Defence Minister Richard Marles has confirmed, while insisting that no sensitive military technology has been compromised.
The issue emerged following reports that a shipment of F-35 aircraft parts, including a canopy containing radar-resistant technology, was unexpectedly sent to Hong Kong after departing Australia earlier this year. The shipment was reportedly intended for the United States, prompting concerns about whether advanced military technology could have been exposed during the diversion.
Speaking in Adelaide, Marles said the Australian government had been informed of the incident and was working closely with US authorities and defence contractor Lockheed Martin to determine exactly what occurred.
According to reports, Lockheed Martin used a third-party logistics provider to transport the components, which were ultimately destined for the United States. The company has declined to discuss specific shipment details, citing security considerations.
In a statement, a Lockheed Martin spokesperson said the company follows all relevant US regulations governing the transportation of defence-related equipment and aircraft components.
The company added that its teams handle every shipment with extensive safeguards designed to protect the integrity of the F-35 program and the security interests of allied nations participating in the project.
The F-35 remains one of the most advanced and widely used military aircraft programs in the world, serving the United States and numerous allied countries. As investigations continue, Australian and US authorities are expected to focus on ensuring similar incidents do not occur in the future.
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