Chinese authorities reportedly in possession of F-35 components in Hong Kong

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35 fighter jet touches down at the former Roosevelt Roads military base in Ceiba, Puerto Rico, September 30, 2025. Ricardo Arduengo | ReutersChinese authorities are reportedly in possession of F-35 stealth fighter parts after components of the aircraft were "inexplicably diverted to Hong Kong." Shipping giant UPS was sending a cockpit canopy and weapons bay door to the U.S. from Australia in late May when it was diverted, Bloomberg reported on Thursday, citing sources.Both parts were coated with a radar absorbing material that enhances their stealth capabilities, the sources said, and it was not clear why the shipment was diverted to Hong Kong. On Tuesday, Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles told reporters Tuesday that Australia was aware of the shipment, and was working with the U.S. and Lockheed Martin to see how Canberra can assist in the investigation. Marles also said it was his understanding that no sensitive parts were in the missing shipment, according to CNN. Lockheed Martin, UPS and the Pentagon didn't immediately respond to requests for comment from CNBC. The F-35 is a fifth-generation stealth fighter made by Lockheed Martin, and Washington c...