Canberra: An Australian military aircraft encountered a Chinese fighter jet in the South China Sea this week.
The Chinese jet released flares in front of Australia’s P-8A surveillance plane on Tuesday.
Australia’s defense ministry called the move “unsafe and unprofessional” in a formal complaint.
Officials confirmed no injuries or damage to the Australian aircraft.
Canberra has raised concerns with Chinese authorities regarding the incident.
China Responds
Beijing stated that the Australian plane “intentionally intruded” into Chinese airspace.
China’s military described its response as “lawful, professional, and restrained.”
Officials insist their jet acted within legal and defensive rights.
This incident adds to growing tensions between the two nations.
China continues to assert broad territorial claims in the South China Sea.
Regional Disputes
China’s territorial claims overlap with several neighboring countries.
Australia does not claim territory in the region but opposes China’s stance.
Canberra supports the US and allies in rejecting China’s territorial assertions.
Australia urges all nations, including China, to ensure military safety.
Tensions over territorial rights have led to multiple confrontations.
Previous Incidents
In May 2023, Australia accused China of a similar act over the Yellow Sea.
A Chinese jet allegedly dropped flares near an Australian navy helicopter.
That aircraft was on a UN Security Council mission at the time.
In November 2023, Australia accused China of harming divers with sonar pulses.
That incident occurred in international waters near Japan.
Ongoing Surveillance
On Thursday, Australia reported monitoring three Chinese navy ships.
The vessels are currently operating northeast of Australia.
They previously traveled through Southeast Asia before nearing Australian waters.
One Chinese vessel recently entered waters in northern Australia.
Canberra continues tracking their movements in its maritime zone.
Australia’s Position
Australia insists all nations must respect international navigation rights.
Officials reaffirm Australia’s right to operate in international waters.
Canberra demands that China also respect these international rights.
The defense ministry stressed the importance of safe military operations.
Diplomatic tensions between the two nations remain high.
