Australia Raises Alarm Over Chinese Military Jet's Risky Maneuver

Mon Oct 20 2025 17:21:51 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a recent incident over the South China Sea, Australia has expressed serious concerns regarding a Chinese military aircraft's potentially dangerous actions near an Australian patrol jet, demanding a professional conduct from all nations' militaries.

Australia has officially raised its concerns with Beijing following an incident where a Chinese military jet released flares near an Australian P-8A patrol aircraft over the South China Sea. The Australian government described the maneuver as 'unsafe and unprofessional,' reaffirming its expectation for all military operations to be conducted safely. This encounter marks another chapter in the strained military relations between Australia and China, set against a backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions in the region. The Chinese government has not yet commented on the incident, which comes during critical diplomatic discussions involving Australia's military partnerships.

Australia has accused a Chinese military aircraft of releasing flares 'in close proximity' to its patrol jet over the South China Sea.

The Australian government has raised its concern with Beijing over the 'unsafe and unprofessional' manoeuvre, the defence department said in a statement. Fortunately, there was no damage to Australia's P-8A aircraft and its personnel were unharmed after Sunday's encounter.

Australia expects all countries, including China, to operate their militaries in a safe and professional manner, the Defence Force stated.

A spokesperson for China's Foreign Ministry was unaware of the incident when asked by reporters.

This incident is part of a series of military encounters between Australia and China in a region marked by overlapping territorial claims. The occurrence coincided with Australian Prime Minister's visit to the US for discussions with President Donald Trump regarding the Aukus submarine deal involving the US and the UK.

Australia has previously raised alarms about Chinese jets dropping flares close to its aircraft, asserting that its military activities are conducted in accordance with international norms.

In previous incidents, Australia accused China's navy of risky maneuvers affecting its military operations, underscoring ongoing tensions and concerns over regional safety.