Federal probe into diversion of F-35 parts to Hong Kong
U.S. lawmakers and the Pentagon are investigating a shipment of unserviceable F-35 components that was diverted from Australia to Hong Kong while en route to the United States for repair. The diverted equipment reportedly included an F-35 canopy, and the current location and custody of the shipment were not known as of Friday. There is no public indication that Chinese authorities or the military have obtained the parts.
Why it matters: The incident highlights the chain-of-custody challenges in the F-35 program's global sustainment and repair network, underscoring the supply-chain theme.