Australia expressed concern over the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) releasing flares near its P-8A Poseidon aircraft on patrol in the South China Sea. The incident prompted a statement from the Australia Defence Department, calling it an “unsafe and unprofessional maneuver” that posed a risk to the aircraft and personnel.
The Australian government has made representations to the Chinese government about the incident, stating that all countries should operate their militaries in a safe and professional manner. This is not the first time the PLAAF has released flares near Australian aircraft, with previous incidents occurring over the Yellow Sea and South China Sea.
In May, a PLAAF fighter dropped flares near an Australian Navy MH-60R helicopter, while last year, a PLAAF J-16 carried out unsafe maneuvers and released chaff near an RAAF P-8A. Both incidents were protested by Australia but did not cause damage or injury to personnel.
Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles highlighted the proximity of the PLAAF fighters during the incident, stating that it was impossible to ensure the flares did not hit the P-8A. The Chinese government has responded, claiming that the Australian military “deliberately intruded into China’s airspace” and violating its sovereignty.
The Australian government is monitoring a PLAN task group operating in the waters north of Australia, with air and maritime assets on standby. Defence Minister Marles stated that the country will continue to monitor the activities of the task group within its rights, but prioritizing safety and professionalism.
Source: https://news.usni.org/2025/02/13/chinese-fighter-harrasses-australian-surviellance-aircraft-over-south-china-sea-officials-say